Torres Strait Regional Authority TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY ANNUAL REPORT 1999–2000 REPORT ANNUAL TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY

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Y E T G I I R O O N H Annual Report 1999–2000 AL AUT Annual Report 1999–2000

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Y E T G I I R O O N H AL AUT

TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY

ANNUAL REPORT 1999–2000

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

BOIGU ISLAND

DAUAN ISLAND SAIBAI ISLAND (Kaumag Is) UGAR (STEPHEN) ISLAND

ERUB (DARNLEY) TORRES STRAIT ISLAND

MASIG (YORKE) ISLAND MABUIAG ISLAND YAM ISLAND BADU (MULGRAVE) MER (MURRAY) ISLAND ISLAND PORUMA (COCONUT) ST PAULS ISLAND WARRABER (SUE) KUBIN MOA ISLAND ISLAND

HAMMOND WAIBEN (THURSDAY) ISLAND ISLAND (Port Kennedy, Tamwoy) NARUPAI MURALAG (HORN) ISLAND (PRINCE OF WALES) ISLAND SEISIA BAMAGA

CAPE YORK ii Torres Strait Regional Authority

© Commonwealth of Australia ISSN 1324–163X This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA). Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction rights should be directed to the Public Affairs Officer, TSRA, PO Box 261, Thursday Island, Qld 4875.

On the front cover appears a LANDSAT satellite image provided by the Australian Centre for Remote Sensing (ACRES), a business unit of AUSLIG, Australia’s national mapping agency: www.auslig.gov.au. The image depicts a section of the Torres Strait between Papua New Guinea in the north and Cape York Peninsula in the south. Please refer to a map of the Torres Strait in report. Copyright © Commonwealth of Australia (1986,1988,1993) Annual Report 1999–2000 iii

CONTENTS letter of transmittal iv Our Vision v Our Goals vi Preface 1 Chairperson’s Report 2 General Manager’s Report 5 TSRA Board 8 About the TSRA 13 Torres Strait Region 13 Operating environment 13 Extent of need 13 Formation 14 Enabling Legislation 15 Functions 15 Powers 16 Powers of Direction by the Minister 16 Review of Electoral System 16 Corporate Overview 17 Corporate Documents 18 Torres Strait Development Plan 19 Relationship with ATSIC 19 Outcome and Outputs 20 Prices of Outcome and Outputs - Planned and Actual 20 Performance Against Outputs 21 Overview of Outputs 23 Output 1 – Economic Development 23 Output 2 – Community Development, Employment and Training 25 Output 3 – Native Title 27 Output 4 – Social, Cultural and Development 27 Output 5 – Housing, Environment, Health and Infrastructure 33 Output 6 – Policy and Information 36 Financial Statements 37 Appendixes Appendix 1: TSRA Grants 63 Appendix 2: Freedom of Information Section 8 Statement 66 Appendix 3: Advertising and Market Research 67 Appendix 4: Staffing Overview; Ministerial Appointments 68 Appendix 5: Consultancy Summary 71 Glossary 72 Indexes 73 iv Torres Strait Regional Authority

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Y E T G I I R O O N H AL AUT

Senator the Hon. John Herron Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Suite MF44 Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600

Dear Minister

It gives me great pleasure to present you with the sixth Annual Report of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), in accordance with section 144ZB of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989 and also section 9 of the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Orders 1998. This Annual Report covers the period from 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000. As we move further into the new millennium the TSRA will continue to work in partnership with the Commonwealth Government to improve the quality of life for all Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people liv- ing in the Torres Strait region. Yours sincerely

Terry Waia Chairperson 5 September 2000 Annual Report 1999–2000 v

OUR VISION

To empower our people to determine their own affairs based on our unique Ailan Kastom bilong Torres Strait from which we draw our unity and strength. vi Torres Strait Regional Authority

OUR GOALS

• Gain recognition of our rights, customs and identity as Indigenous peoples. • Achieve a better quality of life for all people living in the Torres Strait region. • Develop a sustainable economic base. • Achieve better health and community services. • Ensure protection of our environment. • Assert our native title to the lands and waters of the Torres Strait region. Annual Report 1999–2000 1

PREFACE

Guide to the 1999–2000 Annual Audited financial statements are provided, followed Report by the Independent Audit Report. The appendixes The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s Annual Report contain information on a range of topics including 1999–2000 is the Chairperson’s report to the Minister grants the TSRA has made during the year (Appendix for Aboriginal and Torres Stait Islander Affairs on the 1); the TSRA’s statutory functions and powers as performance and achievements of the TSRA during described for section 8 of the Freedom of Information 1998–99. It is a key accountability document to the Act 1982 (Appendix 2); advertising and market Parliament of Australia. research details are in Appendix 3; and Appendix 4 contains a full staffing overview including Ministerial Report stucture Appointments. A Consultancy Summary is in Appendix 5. The Chairperson’s report provides broad comment on the TSRA’s challenges and achievements during the To help guide the reader, the report also includes a reporting period and discusses the TSRA’s perfor- table of contents, an alphabetical index, a compliance mance with a political and economic perspective. index and a glossary of terms and acronyms used. The General Manager’s report provides a more detailed administrative and organisational overview Additional information of the TSRA’s performance against its expected out- To obtain more information please contact comes. Ms Nicolette Körmendy, Public Affairs Officer, Torres Strait Regional Authority, PO Box 261, Thursday Chapter three provides details of the TSRA Members, Island, Queensland 4875, on telephone Advisory Committees, Portfolio Positions and the (07) 40691247, facsimile (07) 40691879, or email TSRA meetings held during 1999–2000. Chapter four [email protected]. provides some detail about the Torres Strait region and the people who live there. It also describes: the environment in which the TSRA operates; how and when the TSRA was created; what the TSRA does; and the framework in which it distributes grants and loans. A section on Outcome and Outputs states the planned and actual prices of the organisation’s outcome, and six outputs which include: Economic Development; Community Development and Training; Native Title; Social, Cultural and Development; Housing, Environment, Health and Infrastructure; and Policy and Information. It includes a table providing details on the planned achievements and the actual achieve- ments for the year in relation to each of these six out- puts. This is followed by an overview of each of the outputs. The programs and sub-programs are listed and the program’s objectives are stated. Details are provided on the strategies and activities the TSRA has undertaken during the year to meet its program objectives, the performance of the programs and sub- programs, and how these programs fit in with the planned achievements as stated in the Torres Strait Development Plan. Where appropriate, the future direction of the program is outlined. 2 Torres Strait Regional Authority

CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT

Introduction calendar. At the appropriate time it will be presented It is now six years to the parliamentary sittings for consideration. since the TSRA was established on 1 July Native Title 1994. With much As the Native Title Representative Body for the Torres pride I can say that Strait region, the TSRA offers legal and anthropologi- in this time the TSRA cal services through its Native Title Office (NTO) to has achieved signifi- assist native title holders and claimants in the Torres cant progress Strait. All claimants who seek TSRA representation towards our aim of are funded by the TSRA and assisted by our staff. This improving the year the NTO was further strengthened by the addi- lifestyle and wellbe- tion of another solicitor and anthropologist. The team ing of Torres Strait worked together in a professional manner to progress Islanders and Aboriginal people living in the Torres the native title claims of the region, the large majori- Strait region. I have had the privilege of being a mem- ty of which are represented by the TSRA. As a result ber of the TSRA Board since its establishment, and in five determinations were achieved, settling six native March this year I was elected to the position of TSRA title land claims put forward by the communities of Chairperson. Together with the newly elected Board Warraber, Poruma, Masig, Mabuiag and Dauan which is comprised of new and returned members, I Islands relating to their respective islands. These are am continuing to work towards the TSRA’s goals, the first claims in the Torres Strait to reach determi- building on the successful outcomes reached by the nations since the people of Saibai and Moa Islands previous Chairperson, Mr John Abednego. The past achieved legal recognition of their native title rights year was highlighted by numerous achievements, over their lands in February 1999. The TSRA repre- each one a significant step towards a positive future sented the Saibai Island claim and have since used it for the Torres Strait, a future in which we will experi- as a model on which to base the native title process ence a level of self sufficiency, a strengthened econo- thereby hastening the progression towards determina- my, a higher degree of autonomy and an improved tions. standard of living. These positive achievements of the past year are detailed in this Annual Report. They are The work accomplished by the NTO staff in dealing a source of encouragement to us as we pursue our with native title issues was acknowledged this year by goals in the approaching financial year, overcoming Senator the Hon. John Herron, Minister for hurdles and challenges as we confront them. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs when he recognised the TSRA as the exclusive Native Title Separate Act of Parliament Representative Body for the Torres Strait region under the 1998 amendments to the Native Title Act. The As Torres Strait Islanders we strive to gain recognition TSRA was the Native Title Representative Body for the of our culture and identity, of which we are immense- Torres Strait under the Native Title Act 1993, however ly proud. For a long time the Government has an amendment to this Act in 1998 required all repre- grouped Torres Strait Islanders with Aboriginal peo- sentative bodies to re-apply to the Minister to retain ple under the one Act of Parliament and the distinc- their status. The Minister made his decision based on tions between our two cultures have been blurred. the result of an independent examination of all However, the Australian Government has given a aspects of the NTO’s operations. commitment to the Torres Strait Regional Authority that we will have our own Act of Parliament, thereby Over the financial year the NTO has also been close- recognising that Torres Strait Islanders are a separate ly involved in projects designed to improve the race of indigenous people. We have now finalised the islands’ infrastructure, ensuring that the rights of bill which has been introduced to the parliamentary native title holders are respected. The NTO’s goals for the coming year include progressing the outstanding Annual Report 1999–2000 3

native title island claims to determination and stream- key Torres Strait organisations will be party to this. lining the existing sea claims so there will be a coher- This whole of government approach is proving suc- ent strategy in place to take advantage of the cessful as each participating party takes on roles and impending Croker Island test case. The NTO also responsibilities and provides funding and resources to continues to deal with ongoing land management the project. issues impacting upon Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people’s native title interests. Joint Torres Strait Housing and Infrastructure Agreement Economic Development Recognising the necessity of integrating housing with One of the TSRA’s goals is to develop a strong eco- the delivery of related infrastructure, our Ailan nomic base in the region so that our people can gain Kastom (Island Custom) and our native title rights, a level of economic independence. We are aiming to the TSRA, the Island Coordinating Council (another reduce our reliance on government welfare and plan key organisation in the Torres Strait) and the to achieve this through developing economically sus- Commonwealth and State Governments recently tainable industries which will improve our economy signed an agreement to jointly address the housing and provide employment opportunities for our peo- and related infrastructure needs within the Torres ple. The TSRA is helping and encouraging Torres Strait. The agreement recognises an ongoing respon- Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people in our region to sibility of the involved parties to ensure the provision start their own business enterprises through the pro- of maintenance, training and operational services vision of business loans and advice. related to housing and infrastructure. As the Major Our portfolio of business loans continues to increase Infrastructure Program and the Water Upgrade at a steady rate and currently there are 109 TSRA Project have successfully demonstrated that joint business funding loans, with an initial value of $2 funding and a cooperative effort between the million. There are also 32 housing loans with an ini- Commonwealth and Queensland Governments and tial value of $2.4 million. The scheme is proving a local communities is an effective way to deliver ser- very successful business catalyst. It is not only a great vices, I believe this agreement will also achieve suc- start to a business but it provides our people with a cessful results. good opportunity to learn about business develop- ment. I am pleased to see that people are choosing to Infrastructure Development and take on the challenge of private enterprise but I also Progress encourage more to take the initiative. In cooperation with the Queensland Government, the TSRA has jointly funded the $21 million Second Stage All of Government Approach of the Water Upgrade Project, which is addressing the Addressing the needs of the Torres Strait people is a water shortages experienced by the island communi- great challenge which the TSRA is confronting by ties for many years. Implemented by the Island working in cooperation with the State and Coordinating Council, the project is close to comple- Commonwealth Governments to implement and fund tion and is proving highly successful. The project major projects. These projects include the Major comprises works on eight communities, Boigu, Infrastructure Program, the Torres Strait Water Dauan, Hammond, Kubin, Murray, Stephen, St Pauls Upgrade Project Stage Two, the Torres Strait Health and Yorke and follows on from Stage One works com- Framework Agreement, and the Joint Torres Strait pleted on seven Torres Strait islands. With the com- Housing and Infrastructure Agreement. In addition, a pletion of this project, island communities will be Torres Strait Framework Agreement, which is assured of an adequate and reliable water supply all addressing the education needs of Torres Strait year around. The project has been received with great Islanders is currently being developed. The TSRA, the relief by the communities who for many years have Commonwealth and State Governments and some run out of water supplies during the long, dry sea- 4 Torres Strait Regional Authority

sons, forcing councils to arrange the transportation of However, before we can progress further towards this emergency water supplies to the islands via barge. goal the people of the Torres Strait must first agree on These improved water supplies will enable the com- what autonomy actually means. The TSRA has fund- munities to maintain a healthier existence. ed the Greater Autonomy Task Force $100,000 in this financial year to conduct consultations in the Torres With funding from the Commonwealth and State Strait communities and provide a report to the Governments amounting to $30 million, the TSRA is Government advising what autonomy should involve. currently implementing the Major Infrastructure At the June 2000 meeting the TSRA Board appointed Program which has been designed to meet the basic myself as the new Chairperson of the Task Force. As health-related infrastructure needs of the communi- a matter of priority I will be ensuring that a useable ties. The entire program is expected to be completed model for autonomy is developed as soon as possible. over a 10-year period and the $30 million acquired at this stage is enough to fund the first three years. We will be lobbying for more funds to ensure the program Conclusion reaches completion. The program began in 1998 and The TRSA has made much progress towards its aim of as a result many of the community’s infrastructure improving the wellbeing and lifestyle of indigenous needs have already been successfully addressed. Our people in this region and this is demonstrated people have been living with inadequate facilities for through the successful results we have achieved. We a long time and this has had an adverse affect on our have laid the foundations on which to add further health status. Through the construction of infrastruc- improvements and will continue to pursue our goals ture such as sewerage systems and water reticulation in the next financial year in cooperation with the systems which are necessary for a healthy existence, Commonwealth and State Governments, with which this program is making a vast improvement to the liv- we maintain a strong relationship. I thank the outgo- ing conditions of our people, and thereby helping to ing Chairperson and Members for their hard work eliminate some of the health problems prevalent in and achievements over the past three years and look our communities. forward to working with the newly elected Board in the next financial year. We have many more chal- Autonomy lenges to face; however, I am confident that we shall overcome all hurdles through working together in the Greater autonomy has been a topic of concern for spirit of cooperation. Torres Strait Islanders for the last few years. With greater political autonomy our people will have a greater degree of decision making power in regard to issues affecting our region. The establishment of the TSRA was a significant step in this direction as the TSRA Board, which consists of representatives of each Terry Waia island community, negotiates directly with the Chairperson Commonwealth Government from which we receive our funds. We already have input into decisions affecting our region. The TSRA has a very successful working relationship with the Commonwealth and State Governments and I am confident that this will continue into the future. The progress we have made with native title, economic development and in improving the quality of life for our people are all pos- itive steps towards autonomy. Autonomy is not some- thing we can attain quickly, it is something we must work towards. Annual Report 1999–2000 5

GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

Introduction Relationship with the Minister During the sixth The TSRA administration has maintained a strong, year of the TSRA’s professional and constructive relationship with the operations consider- Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander able progress was Affairs, Senator the Hon. John Herron. One of the made with the year’s highlights was the Minister’s visit to the Torres Major Infrastructure Strait in late 1999 to open three major water reser- Program and Second voirs in the communities of Yorke Island, Kubin and Stage of the Water St Pauls. The Minister, who had visited these islands Upgrade in the in the past, saw the dramatic developments of the Torres Strait, and the Second Stage Water Upgrade Project which cost $21 people of the region are experiencing significantly million. Particularly gratifying was the fact that the improved health benefits as a result. There was also Minister saw evidence of the strong working relation- considerable success in the native title arena, assisting ships between the TSRA and various State the communities of Warraber, Poruma, Masig, Government agencies which implemented this most Mabuiag and Dauan in gaining legal recognition of important environmental health project. their native title rights over their respective islands. Senator Herron also attended the National Torres These claims reached determination on 6–7 July 2000 Strait Islander Seminar/Workshop held on Thursday and are the first claims to achieve this result since Island in October 1999 to which Torres Strait February 1999 when the Saibai Island claim reached Islanders from the mainland and the Torres Strait determination through TSRA representation. region were invited to discuss a variety of issues. To effectively address the environmental and infra- During one of the conference sessions the delegates structure needs of Torres Strait Islanders in the region had the opportunity to ask Senator Herron numerous and to achieve recognition of native title rights, effec- questions. tive working relationships must exist between the The TSRA administration coordinates visits from the administration, the elected arm and other Minister and other Commonwealth and State Commonwealth and State Government agencies. The Ministers to the Torres Strait as well as other digni- TSRA administration has built on its sound relation- taries and guests. The TSRA administration also pro- ships with various Commonwealth and State vides the Minister with timely advice in a professional Government agencies to ensure significant progress manner on a range of issues pertaining to the Torres and positive results are achieved in these two areas Strait and its people. which contribute so much to the general health and esteem of the people in this region. Administration The second TSRA elections were held in March 2000. The TSRA administration continues to work in full Six new members were elected and there was also a cooperation with the elected Board, thereby ensuring change in the Executive Office bearers with the elec- the aims and aspirations of Torres Strait Islanders and tion of a new Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Aboriginal people living in the region can be fulfilled Alternate Deputy Chairperson and Torres Strait under the constraints of available resources. Commissioner. In addition, significant progress has The TSRA administration entered into negotiations been made towards the development of a separate for its second Workplace Agreement in January 2000. TSRA Act with the introduction of the TSRA Bill onto The bargaining process pertaining to the Workplace the parliamentary calendar at the start of the Year Agreement was conducted in a professional manner 2000. between management and staff and achieved a result which is beneficial to both parties. It is pleasing to report that 98 per cent of the staff voted in favour of 6 Torres Strait Regional Authority

the agreement on 30 June 2000. The agreement runs During the year the TSRA also made plans to sever for a period of three years. itself from ATSIC’s information technology network The TSRA administration moved its financial infor- as it was deemed that the outsourcing arrangement mation systems away from ATSIC during this year to ATSIC was implementing did not suit the TSRA’s a self-contained system housed at the TSRA’s offices. operations. I would like to thank the Information This was a substantial move for the TSRA and was Technology Officer at the TSRA for his dedicated successfully implemented by the Corporate Services efforts and advice in regard to this most crucial devel- Section as well as the Information Technology Officer. opment in the TSRA administration’s operations. I The TSRA staff have upgraded their skills to imple- would also like to thank the dedicated Information ment and become cognisant with the new financial Technology staff at ATSIC for their advice and assis- information system. Apart from a few hiccups, every- tance over the years, particularly this year. My thanks thing has gone extremely well. This is another to Max Devereux and his staff at ATSIC. demonstration of TSRA’s ability to function in an extremely remote area as an independent Business and Economic Development Commonwealth agency. The TSRA administration and Board again demon- Staffing strated their effectiveness in increasing the self-suffi- ciency of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people During the year the TSRA’s staffing level increased due of the region by providing a sound base for economic to the strengthening of the Native Title Office (NTO). development. Following the guideline set out in the The NTO benefited from extra funds as a result of an Corporate Development Plans Members allocated independent report conducted by the Office of Evaluation and Audit regarding its funding and $2.053 million to the Business and Economic staffing levels. The TSRA added three new staff to the Development Program for the year. During the finan- NTO, each ensuring tremendous movement on the cial year the TSRA lent 33 clients $504,551 and fur- resolution of native title determinations during the ther committed $711,900. An additional $575,883 year. The TSRA staffing level is 30 at the end of this was advanced under the Community Enterprise financial year. Incentive Scheme (CEIS) and $768,117 committed.

I would like to congratulate all the staff of the TSRA I would like to thank Mr Miseron Levi, the TSRA’s who again proved themselves an effective and pro- Portfolio Member for Small Business and Economic ductive team throughout the year. I am pleased to Development (from March 1997 to March 2000) for advise that the external audit conducted by the his great support for the program and the administra- Australian National Audit Office again demonstrated tion during the year. Mr Levi was not in good health TSRA’s capability to provide a first class result in line for much of the year but his support and great with other Commonwealth agencies throughout humour was always welcomed. Australia. However, no other agency has to work under the extreme remote conditions of the TSRA The program has had a dramatic effect on the people with limited access to professional services and exper- of the region as can be seen by the fact that approxi- tise. Our staff have been able to provide results equiv- mately one in every 47 people in the Torres Strait have alent to elsewhere in Australia. My thanks go to all been beneficiaries of the BFS program. This amply the staff of the TSRA for their assistance and dedica- demonstrates the effectiveness of the TSRA’s BFS pro- tion throughout the year. gram in servicing the people of the region. It should The TSRA continues to provide valuable traineeship be noted that the clients who have received loans placements to Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal from the program are spread throughout the Torres people of the region who now make up 63 per cent of Strait which again demonstrates the administration’s the TSRA staff. ability to service people. Annual Report 1999–2000 7

Joint Advisory Council year. My thanks go to Mr Mark Sullivan, CEO of The Joint Advisory Council (JAC) developed under ATSIC for his assistance and cooperation with the the auspices of the Torres Strait Treaty between TSRA and I look forward to working with him and the Australia and Papua New Guinea discusses various other ATSIC staff in continued cooperation during the issues that affect the daily lives of the traditional upcoming year. inhabitants under this most important Treaty. The Treaty allows for the free movement of traditional Conclusion inhabitants from the Torres Strait Protected Zone and The significant progress of the Major Infrastructure the Western Province of Papua New Guinea (PNG) Program and native title issues in the Torres Strait has without the use of passports. The Treaty also provides provided me with a great deal of satisfaction. The abil- the framework of Fisheries and Resource ity of the TSRA administration to serve its clients and Management in the Torres Strait. provide a better standard of living in the region has This year’s JAC Meeting was historic as the leader of been again demonstrated. I look forward to the next the Australian Delegation was His Excellency, the financial year in which we will be actively lobbying Hon. Nick Warner, Australia’s High Commissioner to for the continuation of the Major Infrastructure Papua New Guinea. Mr Warner travelled to the Torres Program to provide all communities in the Torres Strait before the JAC Meeting to familiarise himself Strait with much needed improvements in their basic with the people and the region, and led the Australian environmental infrastructure. Delegation to the JAC which met in Port Moresby I wish to thank the outgoing Chairperson, Mr John during November 1999. At the meeting the JAC dis- Abednego, for his help, guidance and good humour cussed amongst other things environmental issues, during the last three years. It was a pleasure working fisheries, the Chevron Gas Pipeline Proposal and with Mr Abednego and he taught me much about the cross border criminal activities. The JAC noted that Torres Strait and its culture. His commitment to the Environmental Management Committee (EMC) Torres Strait Islander people and improvement in the had not progressed to a satisfactory level during the region is extremely commendable. I would also like to year and it urged that the EMC consider appropriate thank the outgoing TSRA Members for their assis- mechanisms to ensure this most important area under tance, particularly Mr Joey Mosby, Mr Miseron Levi the auspices of the JAC be progressed more satisfac- and Mr Gibson Pearson. torily during next year. The new Chairperson, Mr Terry Waia, and members can be assured that my staff and I will continue to Services Agreement provide them with a professional and dedicated ser- During the year the TSRA and ATSIC entered into a vice throughout their current term. Services Agreement to provide the TSRA with Information Technology, Human Resources systems. As stated previously the TSRA has now moved to its own Financial Management System and will also be implementing its own Information Technology sys- tem for next year. In addition, we will be moving away from purchasing our human resource system from ATSIC as this system is no longer compatible David Galvin with that of the TSRA. General Manager I would like to thank all the ATSIC staff, particularly Senior Management, who, through the Services Agreement and beyond its scope, helped the TSRA carry out its roles and responsibilities throughout the 8 Torres Strait Regional Authority

TSRA BOARD

The TSRA consists of 20 Members, eighteen of whom and is eager to ensure traditional values of the Torres hold office by virtue of their election to Island Strait are not eroded. He is highly respected for his Council Chairperson positions on 25 March 2000 efforts in this area especially for his role in negotiat- under the Queensland Community Services (Torres ing arrangements under the Torres Strait Treaty Strait) Act 1984. The other two Members, represent- through participation in several delegations to Papua ing Port Kennedy and Horn/Prince of Wales Islands, New Guinea. were elected on 18 March 2000 in accordance with Division 5 of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mrs Margaret Mau, Commission Act 1989. Deputy Chairperson The TSRA Members are: Mrs Mau is the TSRA Deputy Mr Terry Waia Chairperson, TSRA Portfolio Member for Women’s Issues, Mrs Margaret Mau Chairperson of Dauan Island Mr Henry Garnier Council and a Board member Mr Elia Doolah of the Women’s Council for Rural and Regional Mr Jack Ahmat Communities and the ICC. Issues of concern to Mrs Mr Ted Billy Mau are: providing the people of the outer island communities with access to basic services; regular Mr Edward Dau maintenance to current housing to ensure liveable Mr Ron Day standards and, most importantly, establishment of Mr Pedro Stephen airstrips on Dauan and Stephen Islands to assist in Mr Joseph Elu emergency situations and daily travel. In her role as Mr Saila Savage Portfolio Member for Women’s Issues, Mrs Mau pur- sues and encourages ongoing training and develop- Mr Toshi Kris ment of Torres Strait women to enable them to gain Mr Getano Lui Jnr AM equal representation in decision-making processes Mr John Abednego within the region. Mr Donald Mosby Mr Francis Pearson Mr Terrence Whap, Mr Phillip Bowie Alternate Deputy Chairperson Mr Terrence Whap Mr Whap is the TSRA Mr Reg Williams Alternate Deputy Chairperson, The TSRA member for Stephen Island is currently not TSRA Portfolio Member for represented. The Chairperson is yet to be elected at a Arts, Language, Culture and by-election scheduled for July 2000. Sport, Chairperson of Mabuiag Island Council and a member of the ICC and IBIS Boards. During his term, Mr Mr Terry Waia, Whap would like to achieve better infrastructure for Chairperson island communities; more sporting facilities for youth; Mr Waia was elected the and greater employment for Torres Strait Islander people. TSRA Chairperson on 19 He also encourages training initiatives in the Mabuiag April 2000. He is also Island community. Mr Whap is supportive of economic Chairperson of Saibai Island development and community enterprise and encourages Council and a member of the community members to apply for the TSRA Business ICC. Mr Waia has very strong traditional ties to Saibai Development Loans. Annual Report 1999–2000 9

Mr Henry Garnier, Mr Jack Ahmat, Member for Member for Badu Hammond Island Island Mr Garnier is the Chair- Mr Ahmat is Chairperson of person of the Island Badu Island Council and a Coordinating Council, member of the ICC. He TSRA Portfolio Member for believes the main concerns Marine and Fisheries and in the region are health, Chairperson of Hammond Island Council. Mr Garnier housing, promotion of culture, economic develop- believes the most important issues affecting Torres ment, and protection of the environment and fish- Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in this region eries. He believes it is important for the TSRA to are housing, health, economic development, educa- support the youth of the Torres Strait. tion, water supply and development of a sustainable fishing industry. His vision is for Torres Strait Islander Mr Ted Billy, Member people to own and manage their own fishing industry for Warraber Island and to establish their own banking or credit union Mr Billy is the Chairperson facility in the region. of Warraber Island Council, a member of the ICC and a Mr Elia Doolah, member of the IBIS Board on ATSIC the Board of Directors for the Commissioner for Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula (TSNP) Legal the Torres Strait Service. Mr Billy believes the TSRA is providing a Zone good opportunity for his people to take another step Commissioner Doolah repre- forward to a better future. Issues that are important to sents the TSRA on the ATSIC Mr Billy are health, housing, small business, training, Board and is Chairperson of the Torres Strait Islander employment and education. Mr Billy is keen to see Advisory Board (TSIAB). He is the Chairperson of qualified Torres Strait Islanders working as service Darnley Island Council, Chairperson of the Area providers in Torres Strait communities. He aims to Consultative Committee and a member of the IBIS raise awareness of health problems prevalent in the and Island Coordinating Council (ICC) Boards. Mr Torres Strait and the ways in which these problems Doolah is particularly focused on training and educa- can be prevented and treated. Mr Billy would also like tion and is keen to see qualified Torres Strait Islander to see his people take the opportunity to become people serving their communities. As Commissioner, involved in community enterprise. Another of his pri- Mr Doolah is working towards a better relationship orities is to keep cultural traditions alive and ensure between Torres Strait Islander people living on the they are passed on to future generations. mainland and Torres Strait Islander people living in the Torres Strait. He will be keeping mainland Torres Mr Edward Dau, Strait Islander people informed of the operations of Member for Boigu the TSRA and at the same time, he will convey their Island concerns to ATSIC and the TSRA. Mr Dau is the Chairperson of Boigu Island Council, a member of the ICC and a member of the IBIS Board. He considers housing, health, education and economic development to be the most pressing issues in the Torres Strait region. 10 Torres Strait Regional Authority

During his term as TSRA Member, Mr Dau will work Mr Joseph Elu, towards ensuring negotiations between Australia and Member for Seisia Papua New Guinea regarding the Torres Strait Treaty Community take into account the views of his people. He believes Mr Elu is the Chair- the waters (sea) of the Protected Zone must be safe- person of the Commercial guarded for future generations of Torres Strait Development Corporation Islander people. (CDC), Chairperson of Seisia Island Council, a member of the ICC and Mr Ron Day, Chairperson of the IBIS Board. Mr Elu is encouraging Member for Mer an increase in funding for business development, (Murray Island) establishment of a small business development Mr Day is the Chairperson of agency, and an agreement on a regional economic Mer Island Council and a development strategy which incorporates eco- member of the ICC. He tourism. Under Mr Elu’s direction, Seisia Island would like to see the devel- Council has successfully established a number of opment of a sustainable economy in the Torres Strait business enterprises and has achieved a greater degree and improved standards of education. During his of financial independence. Mr Elu was the term, Mr Day will ensure the TSRA promotes Torres Commissioner of ATSIC from 1994 to 1997 and was Strait culture and encourages young adults to partici- responsible for ATSIC’s Aboriginal Employment pate in mainstream sports. Development Policy (AEDP) Review and the Tourism Industry Strategy Formulation. Mr Elu places empha- Pastor Pedro sis on the development of tourism and economic independence. Stephen, Member for Port Kennedy Mr Saila Savage, Pastor Stephen is the TSRA Member for Kubin Portfolio Member for Education, Training and Community, Moa Employment, representative Island for Port Kennedy on Thursday Island and has been Mr Savage was elected the Mayor of the Torres Shire Council since 1994. He Chairperson of Kubin Island is also Pastor of the Full Gospel Church on Thursday Council in March 2000 and Island. Pastor Stephen is committed to transparent is a member of the ICC. His accountability and has a strong desire to strengthen priorities include expansion of the community and support community organisations and businesses through construction of more housing and the with adequate resources to enable effective service development of community enterprise. Mr Savage delivery within the region. Mr Stephen aims to initi- aims to provide the community’s youth with more ate productive partnerships between government and training opportunities so that they can develop skills non-government organisations and the community. with which they can assist the community and set He is actively involved in the Torres Strait and NPA up enterprises. He encourages young people to also District Health Council, Torres Strait Islander undertake training on the mainland so that they can Regional Education Council, Torres Strait Rotary and bring experience, ideas and expertise back to the the Greater Autonomy Task Force. He is committed to community. the Torres Strait Islanders’ goal to achieve self- government. Annual Report 1999–2000 11

Mr John T.Kris, Torres Strait region. Through political lobbying, he Member for St Pauls has focused government attention on issues affecting Community, Moa people living in the Torres Strait region. He considers Island greater autonomy for the region to be of paramount importance. Mr Lui has been awarded membership of Mr Kris is the TSRA Portfolio the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of his life- Member for Housing and long service to the people of Infrastructure, Chairperson the Torres Strait region. of St Pauls Island Council and member of the ICC. Improvements to the quality and quantity of houses and increased training oppor- Mr Donald Mosby, tunities for the youth at St Pauls are among his top Member for Masig priorities. He believes that through the completion of (Yorke) Island training programs and apprenticeships, community Mr Mosby is the Chairperson members will have greater opportunities to gain of Yorke Island Council and employment and set up enterprises through which a member of the ICC. He aims to develop tourism the community’s economy will improve. He encour- and establish commercial ventures on the island. He ages full community participation in St Pauls’ five encourages his community members to gain qualifi- year Development Plan which details the communi- cations through training and tertiary education and ty’s plans and goals. to establish their own enterprises. Mr Mosby believes that the Torres Strait communities should Mr John Abednego, move away from welfare dependence and progress Member for towards greater autonomy. TRAWQ Mr Abednego is the Mr Francis Pearson, TSRA representative for Member for Poruma the TRAWQ communities (Coconut) Island (Tamwoy, Rosehill, Aplin, Mr Pearson is the Chair- Waiben, and Quarantine), President of the Tamwoy person of Coconut Island Development Association (TDA), President of the and a member of the ICC. He Torres Strait Islander Media Association (TSIMA) and aims to raise the standard of education in his com- a member of the Island Coordinating Council (ICC). munity and invites parents and community members He is committed to the goal of achieving greater to actively participate in the local school’s activities autonomy for the people of Torres Strait. Mr and planning sessions. Mr Pearson encourages people Abednego held the position of TSRA Chairperson to gain qualifications through traineeships, appren- from May 1997–April 2000. ticeships or tertiary study, so that they can use these skills to assist with community development. He also Mr Getano Lui (Jnr) plans to build on the progress achieved by the previ- AM, Member for ous Chairperson, Mr Gibson Pearson, in developing tourism on the island as this will strengthen the Yam Island community’s economy and provide employment Mr Lui is the Chairperson of opportunities. Yam Island Council and was the first Chairperson of the TSRA. He has also served as a director on the CDC. Mr Lui has actively promoted the needs and aspirations of people living in the 12 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Mr Phillip Bowie, Advisory Committees Member for The TSRA formed a Budget Review Panel at the June Ngurupai (Horn) 2000 Board Meeting and the panel has met once. The and Muralug (Prince members of the panel are Mr Terry Waia, Mr John of Wales) Islands Abednego, Mr Pedro Stephen, Mrs Margaret Mau and Mr Terrence Whap. Mr Bowie is the TSRA Portfolio Member for Health and Environment and TSRA Portfolio Positions Member for Horn and Prince of Wales Islands. His The TSRA Portfolio Members as at the 30 June 2000 are: aims for these communities include: provision of a Women’s Issues Mrs Margaret Mau wharf and transportation for school children on Prince Small Business and Mr Donald Mosby of Wales Island; upgrading the drainage and sewerage Economic Development systems on Horn Island; increasing the community Arts, Language, Mr Terrence Whap Police presence; and creating training opportunities Culture, and Sport for the CDEP workers. Mr Bowie aims to improve the Legal and Media Mr John Abednego housing on Horn Island, ensuring that suitable hous- Marine and Fisheries Mr Henry Garnier ing is also available for the elderly. He supports and Housing and Infrastructure Mr Toshi Kris encourages the development of private enterprise and Environment and Health Mr Phillip Bowie will work towards expanding and improving the cur- Education, Training and Mr Pedro Stephen rent health service within his community. He consid- Employment ers the accountability of Torres Strait organisations to be a top priority. TSRA Meetings The TSRA held four meetings between 1 July 1999 Mr Reg Williams, and 30 June 2000. Member for Bamaga Meetings Date Days Community No. 24 6–7 September 1999 2 Mr Williams is the Chairperson No. 25 6–7 December 1999 2 of Bamaga Island Council and No. 26 18–19 April 2000 2 a member of the ICC. He is No. 27 20–21 June 2000 2 presently focusing his ener- All members attended these meetings except for the gies on addressing the issues of land, health, housing, following members who were not present at the education, and employment in his community. His September 1999 meeting: Mr John Abedengo, Mr priorities include the construction of a new resort Miseron Levi, Mr Reg Williams and Mr Elia Doolah. motel, a new Council office, a Rural Transaction Mr Reg Williams was also unable to attend the June Centre and the transfer of the IBIS Bamaga supermar- 2000 meeting. ket complex to Council. Annual Report 1999–2000 13

ABOUT THE TSRA

Torres Strait Region address their poor socioeconomic and health status. The Torres Strait stretches 150 kilometres from the tip Due to the history of severe disadvantage suffered by of Cape York Peninsula in North Queensland to the the indigenous people of the region, such improve- south-west coast of Papua New Guinea. Islands, reefs, ments will be gradual. A report by the Royal and coral and sand cays are scattered throughout the Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody region, the northern most island reaching to within revealed that significant improvements can only be five kilometres of the Papua New Guinea coastline. achieved through fundamental changes in society’s attitudes and recognition of the rights of Australia’s Culturally unique and remarkably beautiful, the indigenous citizens. Consideration should be given to Torres Strait is predominantly inhabited by Torres these factors when assessing the TSRA’s programs. Strait Islander people who possess strong seafaring and trading traditions, and maintain bonds to the sea The following report of the TSRA’s Operating through their culture, lifestyle and history. Environment has two sources: • Statistics, taken from the Australian Bureau of The region was named after Torres, a Spanish explor- Statistics’ (ABS) 1996 Census information (the er who sailed through the Torres Strait in 1606. After most recent statistical information, as the next the arrival of missionaries and early settlers who were ABS census is to be conducted in 2001), which involved in the pearling, bêche-de-mer and mining provide details of the Torres Strait Islander and industries, the Queensland administration of the Aboriginal population in the Torres Strait region, Torres Strait was established in 1877, relocating from indicating the extent of need in several program Somerset to Thursday Island. areas; and The region includes 15 island communities, with • Commonwealth Government strategies, policies and responses which have shaped many of the populations ranging from 83 to 589, and also two TSRA’s program activities. mainland communities. The region’s total population is 8,572, of whom 6,064 are Torres Strait Islander and Extent of need Aboriginal people. Approximately 22,680 Torres Strait Islander people live outside the Torres Strait Population region. The 1996 Census showed that the Torres Strait Torres Strait Islanders first achieved recognition of Islander and Aboriginal population in the region: their traditional rights over their land in 1992, • at 6,064, represented 80 per cent of the total pop- through the High Court’s landmark decision to grant ulation of the region, approximately 2 per cent of Islanders native title rights over Mer (Murray Island). the indigenous population of Australia and This was the first time native title had been recog- approximately 6.5 per cent of the indigenous pop- nised under Australia’s common law. It set a precedent ulation of Queensland; for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people • had increased by 8 per cent since 1991; this small throughout Australia who have since put forward increase possibly indicating a continuing migra- their own claims, hoping to achieve an equally suc- tion of people out of the area but further research cessful outcome. Torres Strait Islanders have since is required; and achieved native title rights over Moa, Saibai,Warraber, • had a median age of 20 years compared to 32 Poruma, Masig, Mabuiag and Dauan Islands in the years for the non-indigenous population of the Torres Strait and are pursuing their native title rights region (i.e. half the indigenous population in the over the sea. region was 20 years-old or less).

Operating environment The TSRA aims to improve the lifestyle and wellbeing of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the region through implementing programs that 14 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Employment • the average household size of households with Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal occupants The 1996 Census information showed: was 4.7 persons per dwelling compared to 2.7 • the number of unemployed Torres Strait Islander with no indigenous occupants. and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait region was 184 and altogether 1,785 people were Health employed. This represents an unemployment rate The following information is derived from the of 5 per cent for Torres Strait Islander and Australian Bureau of Statistics 1999 report on the Aboriginal people compared to 7 per cent for the Health and Welfare of Australia’s Aboriginal and non-indigenous population of the region. In 1991 Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Torres Strait the unemployment rate in the Torres Strait Health Strategy (1993). Islander labour force was 12 per cent. Note: Community Development Employment Project • Over the period 1976–94, estimated mortality (CDEP) participants are counted as employed. rates for Torres Strait Islanders living in the Torres Strait area were about two and a half to three Education times higher than those for all Queenslanders The 1996 Census showed that in the Torres Strait after adjusting for age. region: • The main causes of excess deaths in the Torres Strait area for the period 1989–94 were diabetes • 10 per cent (365) of Torres Strait Islander and (33% of the excess) and heart disease (19%), fol- Aboriginal people aged 15 years or over indicated lowed by perinatal conditions (13%), pneumonia they had tertiary qualifications compared to 47 (12%), bronchitis, emphysema and asthma (12%) per cent of non-indigenous people; and and cancer (11%). • a further 2 per cent (85) of Torres Strait Islander • In 1993, the life expectancy of Torres Strait and Aboriginal people aged 15 years or over were Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres studying for a tertiary qualification. Strait region was approximately 23 years less than that for non-indigenous Australians. Women were Income expected to live 30 years less than non-indigenous Household incomes of Torres Strait Islander and Australian females. Aboriginal people were, according to the 1996 • The region’s hospital admissions in 1993 were Census, on average lower than those of other house- twice that experienced on the Queensland main- holds. Of those households where all income data land. Health problems in the region were exacer- were available: bated by the poor quantity and quality of water and the sewerage and waste disposal systems. • 36 per cent of households earned less than $500 • Data gathered from community consultation and per week compared to 22 per cent of other house- available statistics and studies indicated that holds; and numerous factors impacted on the health status of • at the upper income levels, 6 per cent of Torres the Torres Strait region including environment, Strait Islander and Aboriginal households had housing, infrastructure, nutrition, access to health incomes over $1,500 per week compared to 22 services, community involvement and traditional per cent of other households. culture, alcohol and other substance abuse, infec- tious diseases, women’s health and mental health. Housing According to the 1996 Census, in the Torres Strait Formation region: The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) was • 13 per cent of Torres Strait Islander and established on 1 July 1994, under the Aboriginal and Aboriginal people owned, or were purchasing, Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989, following a their homes compared to 15 per cent of non- review of the Act. Under the Act, the Torres Strait was indigenous people; and one of 35 ATSIC regions throughout Australia. The Annual Report 1999–2000 15

review proposed the creation of a separate Torres Functions Strait authority with the same powers as ATSIC. The functions of the TSRA, as outlined in Section Following consultation with the Torres Strait 142A of the ATSIC Act are: Regional Council, and the Council’s subsequent his- a. to recognise and maintain the special and unique toric decision, the Parliament of Australia established Ailan Kastom of Torres Strait Islanders living in the Torres Strait Regional Authority within the frame- the Torres Strait area; work of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander b. to formulate and implement programs for Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in Commission Act 1989 (ATSIC Act). the Torres Strait area; The TSRA consists of an elected arm and an adminis- c. to monitor the effectiveness of programs for trative arm. The elected arm is comprised of 20 elect- Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, ed representatives who are Torres Strait Islander and living in the Torres Strait area, including programs Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait region. conducted by other bodies; Eighteen TSRA Members are Island Council d. to develop policy proposals to meet national, State and regional needs and priorities of Torres Strait Chairpersons elected under the Queensland Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984, and two Torres Strait area; TSRA Members are elected under Division 5 of the e. to assist, advise and cooperate with Torres Strait ATSIC Act. Islander and Aboriginal communities, organisa- Members of the TSRA elect a Chairperson, a Deputy tions and individuals at national, State, Territory and regional levels; Chairperson and an Alternate Deputy Chairperson. A f. advise the Minister on: Commissioner, also elected by the TSRA Members, represents the TSRA on the ATSIC Board. The (i) matters relating to Torres Strait Islander affairs, and Aboriginal affairs, in the Torres Commissioner is also the Chairperson of the Torres Strait area, including the administration of Strait Islander Advisory Board (TSIAB). A General legislation; Manager is responsible for the TSRA’s administration (ii) the coordination of the activities of other and staffing. Commonwealth bodies that affect Torres Strait Islanders, or Aboriginal persons, living Enabling Legislation in the Torres Strait area; g. when requested by the Minister, to provide infor- The TSRA’s enabling legislation as stated in Part 3A mation or advice to the Minister on any matter Division 1 of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specified by the Minister; Commission Act 1989 is as follows: h. to take such reasonable action as it considers nec- 142. (1) A Torres Strait Regional Authority is essary to protect Torres Strait Islander and established. Aboriginal cultural material and information relating to the Torres Strait area if the material or (2) The TSRA: information is considered sacred or otherwise sig- a. is a body corporate, with perpetual nificant by Torres Strait Islanders or Aboriginal succession; and persons; b. is to have a common seal; and i. at the request of, or with the agreement of, the Australian Bureau of Statistics but not otherwise, c. may acquire, hold and dispose of real and to collect and publish statistical information relat- personal property; and ing to Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal per- d. may sue and be sued in its corporate sons, living in the Torres Strait area; name. j. such other functions as are conferred on the TSRA by this Act or any other Act; 16 Torres Strait Regional Authority

k. such other functions as are expressly conferred on (1) The TSRA must perform its functions and exer- the TSRA by a law of a State or of an internal cise its powers in accordance with any general Territory and in respect of which there is in force written directions given to it by the Minister. written approval by the Minister under section (2) The Minister must not give directions about the 142B; content of any advice, information or recommen- l. to undertake such research as is necessary to dation that may be given by the TSRA to a enable the TSRA to perform any of its other func- Minister, Department of State or authority of the tions; and Commonwealth. m. to do anything else that is incidental or conducive (3) The Minister must not give directions about the to the performance of any of the preceding func- content of any advice, information or recommen- tions. dation that may be given by the TSRA to: Powers (a) a Minister of a State or Territory; or (b) a Department of State of a State or Territory; The powers of the TSRA, as outlined in section 142C or of the ATSIC Act, are the following: (c) an authority of a State or Territory; (1) The TSRA has power to do all things that are nec- essary or convenient to be done for or in connec- except for the purpose of protecting the confiden- tion with the performance of its functions. tiality of information given to the TSRA by the Commonwealth or an authority of the (2) The powers of the TSRA include, but are not lim- Commonwealth. ited to, the following powers: (4) Subject to subsection (5), the Minister must cause (a) to accept gifts, grants, bequests and devises made to it; a copy of a direction to be laid before each House of Parliament within 15 sitting days of that House (b) to act as trustee of money and other property after that direction was given. vested in it on trust; (5) The rule in subsection (4) does not apply if the (c) to negotiate and cooperate with other laying of a copy of a direction before each House Commonwealth bodies and with State, Territory and local government bodies; of the Parliament would result in the disclosure of a matter in a manner that would be inconsistent (d) to enter into an agreement for making a grant with the views or sensitivities of Torres Strait or loan under section 142GA to the State of Islanders or Aboriginal persons. Queensland or an authority of that State (including a local government body); Review of Electoral System (e) to enter into an agreement (other than an agreement referred to in paragraph (d)) with Following the ATSIC elections in 1999, the Minister a State or a Territory. convened a panel in accordance with Section 141 of (3) Despite anything in this Act, any money or other the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission property held by the TSRA on trust must be dealt Act 1989 to review: with in accordance with the powers and duties of 1. the electoral boundaries (ward, region and the TSRA as trustee. zone) under which the various ATSIC and (4) The powers of the TSRA may be exercised in or TSRA elections are conducted; and out of Australia. 2. the rules that set out how those elections are Powers of Direction by the Minister conducted. The TSRA is directed by the Minister for Aboriginal As at the 30 June 2000 the review panel had called for and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Senator the Hon. submissions from interested parties. John Herron, under section 142E of the ATSIC Act, which states: Annual Report 1999–2000 17

Corporate Overview Relations Commission just after the reporting period The Corporate Services section provides a range of on Friday 7 July 2000. This agreement was developed administrative and program services and is responsi- at workplace level in consultation with staff members ble for managing the corporate and financial needs of over a period of 5 months. The objectives of the the TSRA including executive support, finance, hous- agreement are to: ing and enterprise loans, property, personnel, human 1. introduce a strong performance based and merit resources, Workplace Agreement 1998–2000, staff based organisational culture which encourages development and training, reception and registry. rewards and recognises high performance and improves overall organisational performance; Objectives: 2. support and improve services to the TSRA’s client • support delivery of the TSRA services to Torres communities and organisations in the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait; Strait region; 3. provide equitable remuneration and a flexible set • promote the efficient and effective use of human, of conditions and working arrangements, which financial and physical resources; attract, retain and develop all employees; • create a rewarding, safe, healthy and equitable 4. provide flexible and streamlined policies and working environment; practices that support management and staff in • ensure the provision of efficient services for the implementing structural reform; and TSRA and the Minister in order to facilitate deci- 5. promote open communication and learning with- sion-making; in the organisation. • manage and maintain assets of the TSRA; and • administer housing loans, enterprise loans, and Personnel major infrastructure projects to Torres Strait The Corporate Services Section works in conjunction Islander and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait with ATSIC Corporate Division under a Service region. Agreement, which includes the provision of informa- Internal Audit tion technology and human resources services. The Service Agreement finishes on 30 June 2000. The The Office of Evaluation and Audit did not undertake TSRA has set up its own local area network and has an internal audit of the TSRA during the reporting period. outsourced its payroll function to the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander External Audit Studies for the financial year 2000–2001. The 1998–99 financial statement audit undertaken by Staff attended various external and internal training Arthur Anderson on behalf of the Australian National courses throughout the year including ACCPAC – a Audit Office (ANAO) completed in July 1999, gave an new accounting system, CUBE – a new loans soft- unqualified audit opinion. ware, CDEP, Information Technology, Computer The 1999–2000 financial statement audit conducted Skills and Executive Development. Two staff mem- by Arthur Anderson on behalf of ANAO commenced bers are undertaking a Public Sector Management in June 2000 and is scheduled to be completed by the Course. Another staff member is completing a end of July 2000. The results of this audit will be com- Graduate Certificate in Public Administration. mented on in next year’s annual report. Property Workplace Agreement As noted in the TSRA’s 1998–99 Annual Report, the A new TSRA Workplace Agreement (‘the Agreement’) TSRA has an office accommodation usage of 873 which will continue for a three-year period, 1 July square metres for 30 staff and TSRA Members, pro- 2000 to 30 June 2002, was certified by the Industrial viding an average of 29.10 square metres per person. 18 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Equal Employment Opportunity from Comcare for staff. An OH&S Officer for the The TSRA is part of ATSIC’s EEO Program under the TSRA has been elected from within the staff. Service Agreement and takes part in appropriate con- ferences and training programs. Staff are advised of Privacy the current arrangements and receive ATSIC and For the reporting period, the Privacy Commissioner Public Service and Merit Protection Commission did not issue a report on the TSRA under Section 30 (PSMPC) EEO and Harassment and Workplace of the Privacy Act 1988 and no personal privacy com- Diversity booklets and pamphlets as they are revised plaints were made against the TSRA. and developed. EEO and Harassment officers for the TSRA have been elected from within the staff. EEO Corporate Documents statistical information is collected on recruitment of Between 1 July 1999 and 30 June 2000, the TSRA pro- all TSRA staff and provided to the PSMPC at the end duced the TSRA 1998-1999 Annual Report and of each financial year. The TSRA statistical data is set reviewed the TSRA Service Charter. The TSRA also out in Appendix 6(c). produced the Research Protocols Brochure and 6 community newsletters. The purpose of the Research Freedom of Information (FOI) Protocols Brochure was to inform individuals or A statement outlining the structure of the TSRA, as organisations interested in conducting research in the required under Section 8 of the Freedom of Information Torres Strait communities of the appropriate actions Act 1982, can be found in Appendix 2. During the to take prior to commencing research. The protocols reporting period no FOI request was received for were designed to ensure that communities obtain the access to native title documents. Also, no applications information necessary for them to make informed for Internal Review or applications to the decisions as to whom they would allow to conduct Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for review of research in their communities and on their land and a decision in relation to a request were received dur- waters. ing this time. The TSRA community newsletter (known as TSRA Industrial Democracy News) is a publication distributed throughout the Torres Strait region and Australian mainland via The TSRA is part of ATSIC’s Industrial Democracy insertion in the local newspaper, Torres News. The aim activities and policies under the Service Agreement of TSRA News is to inform people living in the Torres with ATSIC. The TSRA staff receive ATSIC workplace Strait and on the mainland of what is happening at change publications, staff circulars, policies, and the TSRA. It consists of media releases by the TSRA strategies as they are developed. Staff members also and articles specifically relating to the activities and participate in regular management, section and staff achievements of the TSRA’s elected and administrative meetings. arms. The TSRA did not produce the TSRA News dur- ing the three month caretaker period leading up to Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) the TSRA elections in March 2000. The TSRA com- This report is provided under Section 74 of the munity newsletter compilation and distribution com- Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth menced in June 1996. Employment) Act 1990. The TSRA is part of ATSIC’s The TSRA has also produced a guide for the progress OH&S Policy Agreement under the Service of the Torres Strait and its people towards the year Agreement and takes part in appropriate national con- 2001, called the Torres Strait Development Plan. This sultation. Staff are informed of the current arrange- plan is required under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait ments and receive OH&S publications from ATSIC as Islander Commission Act 1989. they are developed. The TSRA staff have access to the ATSIC Employee Assistance Program (EAP) under These publications can be viewed on the TSRA web- the Service Agreement. Publications are also received site (www.tsra.gov.au). Annual Report 1999–2000 19

Torres Strait Development Plan the same services provided in previous years. For Section 142D of the ATSIC Act states: 1999-2000 the Services Agreement was extended for the provision of information technology and human ‘(1)The TSRA must formulate, and revise from time resources systems but did not include the provision of to time, a plan to be known as the Torres Strait financial management systems as the TSRA had put in Development Plan (the “Plan”). place its own financial management systems. The (2) The aim of the Plan is to improve the economic, Service Agreement finished on 30 June 2000. social and cultural status of Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the The TSRA would like to thank ATSIC for its assistance Torres Strait area. for the previous five years, as through the Agreement, (3) The Plan must outline the strategies and policies it helped the TSRA to carry out its roles and respons- that the TSRA intends to adopt in order to imple- bilities in a timely and professional manner. ment the Plan, including, but not limited to, a marine strategy for the Torres Strait area. (4) Each Plan must relate to a period of at least three years, but not more than five years. (5) The TSRA must review the Plan regularly. (6) The TSRA must perform its functions under this section in consultation with the Minister. (7) Without limiting the operation of the Freedom of Information Act 1982, the TSRA General Manager must ensure that copies of the Plan as in force from time to time are available for inspection and purchase at each office of the TSRA. (8) The TSRA General Manager must cause notice of the publication of the Plan to be published in the Gazette.’ The TSRA approved and published the Plan in March 1998. It was gazetted during 1998–99. The Development Plan is reflected in the various sections and sub-sections which comprise this report.

Relationship with ATSIC The relationship between the TSRA and ATSIC is largely governed by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989. This Act provides for the inclusion of a TSRA representative as a Commissioner of ATSIC who also chairs ATSIC’s Torres Strait Islander Advisory Board. The TSRA and ATSIC entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 1 July 1994 that provides the TSRA with information technology, human resources and financial management systems. The MoU was extended for the financial years 1995–96 and 1996–97 to continue the same services provided in the previous year. For the 1998–99 financial year the MoU was changed to a Services Agreement with 20 Torres Strait Regional Authority

OUTCOME AND OUTPUTS

Prices of Outcome and Outputs – It was generally understood that this, together with Planned and Actual the introduction of the method of budgeting based on the full cost of government activities (Outputs), In 1999–2000 the Commonwealth Government would promote better accountability and profession- adopted a new financial management framework that alism and would facilitate more informed decision changed the way Commonwealth departments and making. agencies prepare their budgets and estimates. The new framework made Outcomes and Outputs the The Torres Strait Regional Authority had just one focus of the way in which departments and agencies planned Outcome for 1999–2000. The Outcome was plan their activities, budget and manage resources at “to achieve a better quality of life and to develop an their disposal and report to the Government. economic base for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal persons living in the Torres Strait”. There Outcomes are the results the departments and agen- were 6 Outputs that contributed to the achievement cies are expected to achieve and Outputs are the of the planned Outcome. The Outcome and Outputs goods and services which are produced and con- together with the budgeted and actual prices are list- tribute to the achievement of those outcomes. ed below.

The Outcome of the TSRA is to achieve a better quality of life and to develop an economic base for Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal persons living in the Torres Strait Budgeted Total Price of Outputs $45.092m Actual Total Price of Outputs $41.055m Output 1 Economic Development Budgeted Total Price $2.781m Actual Total Price $2.157m

Output 2 Community Development Employment and Training Budgeted Total Price $24.61m Actual Total Price $23.778m

Output 3 Native Title Budgeted Total Price $1.663m Actual Total Price $0.703m

Output 4 Social Cultural and Development Budgeted Total Price $6.668m Actual Total Price $6.044m

Output 5 Housing, Environment, Health and Infrastructure Budgeted Total Price $8.072m Actual Total Price $7.472m

Output 6 Policy and Information Budgeted Total Price $1.298m Actual Total Price $0.901m Notes: 1. Revenue from Government through appropriations contributes 98.4% to the total Output price for this Outcome for 1999–2000. 2. The TSRA has no administered expenses. 3. Approximately $0.9m was expended on housing for Native Title Office staff. Only $16,000 was claimed in depreciation in accounting for the output. Approximately another $400,000 was expended on replacement of plant and equipment of which only depreciation was accounted for in the output. Annual Report 1999–2000 21

Performance Against Outputs The table below sets out the Planned Achievements in accordance with the TSRA goals, as stated in the Development Plan, and the Actual Achievements for the year.

Output Planned Achievements Actual Achievements 1. Economic Development Quality: 75% of contracts settled 50% of contracts settled in one month, within one month. 30% of contracts are settled within one to Quantity: 55 new contracts. three months, 20% three to six months. Price: an average of $20,000 per loan A total of 33 BFS loans were approved to contract. 3 Community Development clients. Of these 23 were for new loans Grants & 1 housing loan. and 10 were an increase in loans for existing clients. Provide 50 loans to establish business A total of 7 housing loans were approved. increasing the total portfolio to 140. The average business loan was for $17,410. Provide 3 grants to communities in The loan portfolio consists of 141 loans, order to establish viable enterprises. 109 BFS loans and 32 housing loans. Provide 1 loan under Housing During the financial year 15 BFS loans and Loan Program. 1 Housing loan were discharged. Two grants were approved for the Dauan Guest House and Coconut Island Tourism project. In addition four BFS loans were approved to Community Councils. 2. Community Development, Quality: 75% of CDEP communities 88% of CDEP organisations fully complied Employment and Training comply with guidelines. 85% of with the CDEP and general funding and targeted training delivered within the operational guidelines. financial year. 80% of targeted training was delivered Quantity: 17 communities are on CDEP. within the financial year. The remaining 37 training programs to be funded. 20% will be conducted within the first Price: $ 24.61m for the Output 2 months of the new financial year. 17 funded CDEP organisations enabled 20 Ensure that the program is working communities to be on the CDEP program. effectively by scheduling community 68 Community Training programs were visits twice a year and checking funded. quarterly financial returns and that Price: aggregate of $23.528m for the Output. 1700 eligible participants are qualified Each community and organisation was to be on the program. visited an average of 6.5 visits a year. The financial year ended with 1661 participants eligible to be on the program. 3. Native Title Quality: Recruitment of two new Two new officers successfully recruited. officers completed by August 1999. Straight forward inquiries relating to claims Inquiries relating to claims to be responded to under 7 days. responded to within 7 days. Six claims successfully negotiated to consent Quantity: 4 claims to be successfully determinations of native title. negotiated. Price: $1.06m for administering the Output 22 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Output Planned Achievements Actual Achievements A Legal and a Research officer will be There are 14 communities that recruited by August 1999 to handle have been involved in native title the added workload of the Native claims in the Torres Strait. To date Title Office. eight of these communities have reached successful Outcomes. 4. Social, Cultural and Quality: approved grants for approved All funded organisations received all or part Development projects will be funded within 28 days of their first quarterly release within 28 days of commencement of the financial year. of the commencement of the financial year. Quantity: 22 grants will be approved 28 grants were approved in the 1999–2000 in the financial year. financial year Price: an aggregate of $6.668m for Price: aggregate of $6.088m for the Output. the Output.

Provide assistance to the communities to promote and improve the social and cultural wellbeing. Promote community involvement in environmental issues affecting them by providing financial assistance to suitable community organisations running appropriate programs and through publications produced by the TSRA. 5.Housing and Environment Quality: infrastructure projects Approximately 70% of projects commenced Health and Infrastructure commenced in 1998–99 year will be in 1998–99 were completed by June 2000 80% completed by 30 June 2000. Seven of the eight communities under Quantity: sewerage, housing, water Stage 2 of the Water Upgrade have had supply and reticulation infrastructure their water supplies built which allows projects for the seventeen island water supply adhering to the standard set by communities are continuing; 20 the World Health Authority. Three projects to be completed. communities had their water supply Price: an aggregate of $8.072m has upgraded. Eight communities had their been targeted for the Output water reticulation system upgraded. Drainage was upgraded in one community. 10 communities will have their water Sewerage was upgraded in four supply upgraded in accordance with communities. standards determined by the World Health Organisation. Upgrade Sewerage Systems in 5 communities. Upgrade Water Reticulation in 5 communities. Upgrade drainage in 1 community. Annual Report 1999–2000 23

Output Planned Achievements Actual Achievements 6. Policy and Information Quality: 98% of Ministerial 22 ministerials were received; 21 were dealt correspondence dealt with within within under 14 days and one was dealt 14 days. 98% of TSRA Board within 21 days. All were dealt with by the Members and Portfolio Member for set deadline. Women’s Issues’ queries responded 100% of verbal queries were responded to to within 14 days. 98% of queries in 14 days. from the public responded to within 80% of written queries were responded to 14 days. in 14 days. Quantity: 693 publicity, 954 publicity queries and correspondence queries and correspondence are received including 590 items of anticipated. Less than 5% complaint correspondence. from TSRA clients. 1 complaint was received, less than 0.2%. Price: $1.298m

Overview of Outputs Description The BFS has enabled the establishment of a number of Output 1 – Economic Development businesses within the Torres Strait region, all of which provide an important service to the wider communi- PROGRAM: ECONOMIC ty. The BFS promotes the economic independence of This output is comprised of one major program, the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people by help- Economic Program, which supplements and con- ing them acquire, own and develop commercially suc- tributes to mainstream programs aimed at increasing cessful enterprises. Over the years, the BFS has the economic empowerment and status of Torres assisted many individuals and partnerships to estab- Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the lish successful business ventures in a range of indus- Torres Strait region and developing opportunities for tries. This in turn creates employment for the enhancing employment, training, enterprise develop- indigenous people of the Torres Strait and Northern ment and home ownership. Peninsula Area. The Economic Program is comprised of 3 sub- One of the key success factors in the Economic programs: Development program is the use of business agents to assist clients in establishing their business and, if 1. – Business Funding Scheme (BFS); required, provide ongoing professional assistance. In 2. – Home Ownership; addition, the TSRA pays clients’ legal costs. This 3. – Community Economic Initiatives Scheme includes legal advice associated with forming the (CEIS) business and the preparation of legal documentation. SUBPROGRAM: BUSINESS FUNDING If required, the BFS provides an additional service to SCHEME (BFS) clients – organising and paying for insurance over the assets. The insurance cost is then charged back to the Objective client’s loan account. To increase the economic independence of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the Torres Achievements Strait region by facilitating the acquisition, ownership The Business Funding Scheme is proving a significant and development of commercially viable enterprises source of commercial finance for Torres Strait in accordance with the principles of sustainable eco- Islanders wanting to establish or expand their busi- nomic development. nesses. During the financial period a total of 33 loans 24 Torres Strait Regional Authority

were advanced at a total value of $504,551. This com- Description prises 23 new loans and 10 increases in existing loans. The Housing Loan Scheme provides home or land The number of BFS loans that have been advanced loans at concessionary interest rates to Torres Strait this financial year is down by 18. This is partly a con- Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres sequence of the poor crayfishing seasons in 1999 and Strait region who would not normally be able to 2000. Many professional divers are postponing busi- obtain assistance from conventional lending institu- ness expansion until the fishing industry improves. tions. The scheme is targeted at low income, first During the financial year seven clients paid out their home buyers according to a point system based on BFS loans. family size and rental circumstances. The scheme is self funding. While the majority of the loans remain within the fishing industry, it is pleasing to see that Torres Strait If required, an additional service that Home Islanders are undertaking a diversified range of com- Ownership provides to clients is organising and pay- mercial activities. For example, of the loans financed ing for insurance. The insurance cost is then charged this financial period the following areas of commer- back to the client’s loan account. cial activity were undertaken. Achievements Industry Sector No. Loans $ value This year there has been an unprecedented approval Disbursed of home loans. For example last financial year three Commercial Fishing 24 302,863 loans were released out of the program. This financial Seafood Processing year twelve new loans have been approved. In addi- tion, one client paid out their housing loan. Retail 4 111,662 Transport 3 67,305 SUB PROGRAM: COMMUNITY ECONOMIC Trade 1 7,570 INITIATIVES SCHEME (CEIS) Industrial 1 15,151 Objective Total 33 504,551 To contribute directly to the economic growth of In this financial year four BFS loans to community communities by enabling the development of income councils were approved. The loans have been generating projects with social, cultural and econom- approved for Seisia meat processing facilities, Bamaga ic benefits. Motel, Badu Earth Works and the Coconut Island Tourism Venture. This represents a positive evolu- Description tionary step towards the community councils obtain- Through this component grants are provided to ing commercial independence. The projects were able Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal organisations for to demonstrate that the councils could achieve a com- the establishment and/or expansion of commercial mercially viable operation with the cost of capital income generating ventures. taken into consideration. Achievements SUB PROGRAM: HOME OWNERSHIP During 1999–2000, the TSRA approved the following Objective two grants under the CEIS to Island Councils. To provide home ownership for the indigenous resi- Project Approval $ dents of the Torres Strait region through home loans, Dauan Guest House 150,000 thereby improving their economic status and social Coconut Island Tourism Venture 350,000 well being. Total 500,000 Annual Report 1999–2000 25

The Dauan Guest House was developed due to a need flexibility and capacity to link with other programs to provide comfortable accommodation to the corpo- such as the Business Funding and Community rate visitor travelling to the island. With the estab- Economic Initiatives Schemes, the Community lishment of suitable accommodation the Dauan Island Training Program, apprenticeships and various Community Council is able to charge a room rate that accredited training programs provided by DETYA. allows for a modest commercial return. Funding Coconut Island Council was allocated $350,000 towards the Coconut Island Community Council’s The TSRA committed $21,089,118 of program funds Tourist Venture comprised of two standalone self- for CDEP to projects in the Torres Strait region, contained lodges with central outdoor facilities. The achieving 97% expenditure over commitment. It is project will provide direct employment for up to six the TSRA’s single largest program. As at 30 June 2000, members of the island community. In addition, sec- there was a total of 1,661 participants in 17 CDEP ondary employment will be generated through the schemes, covering 20 communities. Expenditure for provision of fishing and diving charters. 1999–2000 was $20,457,961, comprising wages ($15,560,342) and recurrent/capital ($4,897,619), Output 2 – Community Development, which included $81,709 as CDEP Support (purchase of 17 dedicated CDEP computers for the organisa- Employment and Training tions and organising the annual CDEP Seminar). The Community Development, Employment and Training Output comprises two programs: Achievements 1 – Community Development Employment CDEP communities within the Torres Strait region are Program (CDEP) involved in a number of work projects which CDEP 2 – Community Training Program (CTP) members consider to be beneficial to their particular community. During 1999–2000, these projects sup- PROGRAM – COMMUNITY DEVELOP- ported activities such as: road and drainage main- MENT EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (CDEP) tenance; nursery projects; livestock management; cargo handling; fishing, seafood processing and take- Objective away enterprises; maintenance of buildings, sea walls, To provide Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal peo- levee banks and other public utilities; art and crafts; ple with the opportunity to voluntarily work in com- and broadcasting. To these ongoing activities were munity managed activities which contribute to added housing and major infrastructure contracts economic, social and community development and which continued to be won by CDEP organisations, cultural maintenance. continuing and expanding the trend started during 1996–97. In addition, a strongly stated TSRA policy Description resulted in major construction companies employing CDEP is available to Torres Strait Islander communi- increasing numbers of CDEP participants, thus pro- ties within the Torres Strait region. The scheme viding the workers with extended working hours and enables unemployed Torres Strait Islander and increased income, as well as valuable training. Aboriginal persons to undertake work on activities The 1999–2000 financial year illustrated the systema- chosen by the community or organisation as an alter- tisation of the planning processes inititiated with the native to unemployment benefits. compilation of the Community Development Plans The scheme facilitates community development drafted in 1997–98, in accordance with the local through the implementation of projects decided upon needs and the various strategies, many of which by the communities themselves, at their own pace involved other Commonwealth and State agencies. and following their own priorities. Community devel- These Community Plans will be updated during the opment is further enhanced through the scheme’s next financial year (2000–2001), to form the basis of 26 Torres Strait Regional Authority

the next Three-Year Planning and Funding Cycle. Funding This will be done, as previously, through intensive In 1999–2000, the TSRA committed $1,572,590 to consultations with the Islander communities and various Torres Strait Islander communities and organ- coordination and cooperation with the Queensland isations for the continuation of the CTP program, Government agencies. The CDEP scheme remains the achieving 94.6% expenditure over commitment. focal point to which a host of other inter-agency pro- grams, notably related to training and business devel- Achievements opment, are connected. As in previous years, the training funds were used to Funds were committed for the annual reviews of 10 improve managerial, administrative, and trade-based TSRA funded organisations. These funds ($30,000) skills. A range of courses were conducted on the fol- lowing – computer operation, accounting, software, had to be rolled-over into the 2000–2001 financial office management, building trades, screen printing, year, as the planned reviews clashed with the Office of fashion studies, small business management, fish- Evaluation & Audit Review of the TSRA operations, ery/seafood processing, fuel outlets, hazardous sub- which focused on the CDEP organisations. The stances, retailing, First Aid, Work Place Health & planned reviews will be implemented during the first Safety, community policing, airport reporting, child half of the 2000–2001 financial year. care, ranger, furniture making, cooking and sewing, The 1999–2000 CDEP work plans and programs fitness and sport coaching, environmental health, and closely followed the local priorities outlined in Year 2 financial management. of the Three-year Community Development Plans A concerted effort to link these courses with CDEP developed in 1997–98 and reflected in the TSRA tri- and the training and employment opportunities ennial system of funding. offered to the communities by the Department of Education, Training and Youth Affairs (DETYA) as PROGRAM – COMMUNITY TRAINING well as the network of Job Centres, continued during PROGRAM (CTP) 1998–99. Torres Strait communities utilised skilled residents to conduct training where possible, while in Objective other instances expressions of interest were sought To improve individual and community skill levels to from trainers based elsewhere. In 1999–2000, more enable communities and individuals to improve self- than 40 apprenticeships were supported and main- management to become more competitive in the tained. The TSRA Board have made it clear that they mainstream labour markets. continue to consider community based training as one of the utmost priorities in the Torres Strait. Description As part of the total CTP allocation, the TSRA con- This component provides community organisations tributed $200,000 to the Financial Administration with the opportunity to apply for funds to upgrade Improvement Program (FAIP), a Queensland skills in administration, financial management, ser- Government initiative aimed at improving the stan- vices industries and trades, as well as training related dards of financial administration and reporting of the to environmental issues, health, heritage and culture Island Councils. The program is coordinated by the and land management. This training can take the Island Coordinating Council (ICC) and involves form of formal courses, on-the-job training, or a mix- intensive training in financial administration of the ture of both. councils’ staff, both through on-the-job training by professional financial services officers and through Through this component financial assistance may formal sessions delivered by contracted training con- also be provided to a sponsoring organisation’s staff sultants. Regular and frequent meetings are being member to undertake a full time accredited course at held involving representatives of the TSRA, the Island a recognised tertiary educational institution. Coordinating Council (ICC) and the State Annual Report 1999–2000 27

Government, enabling close monitoring of the perfor- The TSRA is acting on behalf of the claimants in a mance of the councils and organisations. Significant majority of the Torres Strait communities and pro- successes have been achieved in this area this year, gressing their native title claims. The Native Title with an increasing number of Island Councils able to Office has been further upgraded with the addition of receive unqualified audit reports by the Queensland a second solicitor and an anthropologist. The con- Auditor General. tracts involving the Senior Lawyer, the Senior Anthropologist and the Executive Officer were finalised, and run until February 2001 (Senior Lawyer Output 3 – Native Title and Executive Officer) and September 2000 (Senior Objective Anthropologist). To achieve maximum recognition of the native title The Native Title Office has also addressed several sig- rights of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal peoples nificant land management issues including native title in relation to the land and seas of the Torres Strait. clearances for the construction of major infrastruc- ture on numerous islands. Description Output 4 – Social, Cultural and This component facilitates the securing of legal recog- nition of native title in the Torres Strait; and proper Development regard for native title rights in relation to all projects Through the Social, Cultural and Development affecting Torres Strait land and seas. Output, the TSRA aims to enable Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the Torres Strait Funding region to lead independent and healthy lives, with full recognition of their cultural heritage and rights to For the 1999–2000 financial year the TSRA was fund- land by providing coherent and responsive programs ed, through the newly adopted accrual accounting to improve the quality of their lives and to ensure system, an amount of $1.663 million for the ongoing equity in their access to services and participation in operation of the Native Title Office and the provision the wider community. of housing for the Native Title Office staff. A total of $90,000 was committed and expended from the This Output comprises 5 programs as outlined below: Native Title allocation towards reimbursement of 1. – Municipal Support & Broadcasting costs incurred by TSRA funded organisations: 2. – Social Justice $70,000 went to the Island Coordinating Council for 3. – Heritage, Culture & Environment finalisation of contracts involving native title staff and 4. – Youth Support & Sports $20,000 to the Mer (Murray) Island Council for reim- 5. – Women’s Issues bursement of costs incurred while dealing with local Land Tenure issues. PROGRAM – MUNICIPAL SUPPORT & BROADCASTING Achievements This program is comprised of two sub-programs: Five determinations recognising native title in the 1. Municipal Support Torres Strait were obtained, settling six native title 2. Broadcasting land claims. The TSRA was instrumental in securing these determinations, which were achieved for the SUB PROGRAM – MUNICIPAL SUPPORT communities of Warraber, Poruma, Masig (Yorke), Mabuiag and Dauan Islands. This was the result of Objective extensive community consultations carried out over a To ensure that an increasing number of indigenous period of 18 months by the TSRA Chairperson, the people living in the Torres Strait region have access to native title Steering Committee and the Native Title facilities consistent with and appropriate to their Office staff. needs, as well as essential municipal services. 28 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Description The Dauan Island Council Community Hall was The TSRA may provide funding under this compo- upgraded ($50,000 was released late last year). nent in the following manner: The Badu Island Council Community Hall was also • contributions towards the operating costs of local upgraded ($110,000). and remote communities’ councils and organisa- The planned community hall at Darnley Island was tions; still plagued by problems associated with Land • supplements for the State’s vehicle and machinery Tenure, therefore the funds ($377,063) had to be replacement program; and rolled-over for the second time. • funding for community amenities, buildings, The Island Councils received grants totalling essential services and temporary accommodation. $632,080 which enabled them to purchase the fol- Funding lowing items of machinery and equipment: a) Badu Island Council Truck In 1999–2000, the TSRA committed $1,269,791 as a b) Hammond Island Council Pump-out truck contribution to the Island Councils’ operations, c) Bamaga Island Council Farm tractor $693,768 towards the purchase or replacement of d) Boigu Island Council Backhoe earth moving and other machinery, and $1,052,816 e) Coconut Island Council Spacia Bus towards the construction of council buildings, com- f) Dauan Island Council 5 ton Tip-truck munity halls, resource centres and other amenities. g) Murray Island Council Second hand Bulldozer Achievements h) St.Pauls Island Council Multi-tool machine i) Warraber Island Council Hi-lux Dual cab The Island Councils used the TSRA’s funds for the j) Yam Island Council Rubbish truck employment of council clerks, who are responsible for the management and coordination of the councils’ SUB PROGRAM – BROADCASTING operations, and to supplement the funds provided by Objective the Queensland Government for council operations To enable Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal peo- and the capital equipment replacement program. The ple of the Torres Strait region access to the range of TSRA achieved 98.6% expenditure (council opera- broadcasting and communication services available to tions), 91.1% expenditure (machinery) and 31% mainstream Australia. expenditure (community buildings and amenities) in the 1999–2000 financial year, and the rest was rolled To develop and extend the broadcasting and commu- nications network of the indigenous residents of the over into 2000–2001. Torres Strait in order to reinforce and promote their The Mer (Murray) Island Council is currently build- cultural identity and to foster general community ing the new sea food processing facility and have used awareness of their culture and priorities. in 1999–2000 more than half their allocation of $403,368. The remainder was rolled-over into the Description next financial year as the construction has been This program gives the indigenous residents of the delayed due to the abnormally long wet season. The Torres Strait control of their own broadcasting and project is due for completion during the first half of television services. Through the BRACS scheme, it the 2000–2001 financial year. provides remote communities with the facilities to gain access to, and control of, television and radio ser- The community hall at Saibai was completed. vices. It encourages the production of programs with The planned community hall at Kubin is still awaiting local and cultural imput for distribution within the a contribution from the State Government and the Torres Strait region and the rest of Australia. It also funds ($150,000) were rolled-over into the next supports the operations and development of the financial year. Torres Strait Indigenous Media Association (TSIMA). Annual Report 1999–2000 29

Funding contact with the juvenile and criminal justice system, The TSRA provided funding totalling $1,101,129 and is committed to the development of Torres Strait indigenous perspectives to be brought to bear in under this component. The Torres Strait Islander international and national forums. Media Association (TSIMA) received approximately half of this funding ($540,229) for operational and Funding community broadcasting costs. The Island Coordinating Council received $206,900 for the The TSRA provided $383,888 under this program establishment of a third television channel on the during 1999–2000 for the provision of a legal service to Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living islands. The remainder of the funds ($354,000) was in the region. divided between 16 outer Island Councils for upgrad- ing, operating and maintaining their own BRACS Achievements units through a three-year rolling program of main- tenance and capital replacement. The principal achievement of this program has been the availability of adequate legal representation for Achievements people living in the Torres Strait region at the Magistrate Courts of both Thursday Island and TSIMA obtained a licence for 24 hour operation from Bamaga. the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal and operated on that basis in 1998–99, providing a local service of In 1999–2000, the TSNP Legal Service gave prelimi- nary legal advice and consultations to 921 clients, news, music, current affairs and items of interest. This gave assistance in 120 civil cases and represented 801 operation continued throughout 1999–2000. criminal cases. They also gave 240 brief outs in Cairns All 16 Island communities now have access to at least and commenced a program of intensive legal and three television stations. office training for their staff, including several ses- sions on dealing with clients. The 1997–98 review commissioned by TSIMA had recommended a systematic program involving PROGRAM – HERITAGE, CULTURE & upgrades of the buildings and equipment used by the ENVIRONMENT outer islands’ BRACS units. This program was incor- porated into the TSRA three-year funding plan on an Objective urgency of needs basis and through it the BRACS To assist the indigenous people of the Torres Strait units operating at Stephen, Warraber, Badu, Kubin region in preserving, protecting and developing their and Dauan Islands received capital funding of cultural heritage and to promote their involvement in $15,000 in 1999–2000, in addition to their normal environmental issues affecting them. operating costs. Overall expenditure against this out- put was 97%. Description This program provides funds to: support projects PROGRAM – SOCIAL JUSTICE seeking to preserve and protect the environment, heritage, culture and languages of the indigenous Objective people of the Torres Strait region; promote and max- To ensure that the human and legal rights of the indige- imise their involvement in the management of their nous people of the Torres Strait region are enforced at land, seas and sacred sites; and to ensure that they international, national, state and local levels. regain ownership and control of the areas and objects of cultural significance to them. Description In addition, this program element provides funds to The TSRA is providing financial assistance towards promote, develop and support the Torres Strait the provision of culturally appropriate indigenous region’s indigenous people in their involvement with Legal Aid services. It also supports advocacy services traditional/modern artistic and cultural activities as representing the interests of indigenous people in well as to promote awareness of the contribution 30 Torres Strait Regional Authority

made by the region’s indigenous art, culture and his- Achievements tory to the wider Australian and world community. Torres Strait Heavy Metals (Research) Project

a) Heritage & Culture The purpose of the grants was to fund the continua- tion of the Torres Strait Heavy Metals (Research) Funding Project being co-operatively undertaken by the Great In 1999–2000, the TSRA committed a total of Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, James Cook $114,061 for the support of artistic and cultural activ- University, Australian Fisheries Management ities in the Torres Strait region. Authority, Australian Institute of Marine Science, TSRA. The TSRA received a report on the first stage of Achievements the project (bivalve analysis for heavy metals) before In 1999–2000, the TSRA provided the Torres Shire 30 June 2000 which is to be published. Interim Council with $55,000 towards the organisation of the reporting to Environment Australia has occurred. The biennial Torres Strait Cultural Festival and provided project continues in 2000–2001 with the ultimate the Thursday Island State Primary School with objective of reporting on heavy metals present in tra- $12,000 in support of its annual program of tradi- ditional food species consumed by Torres Strait tional dancing in Queensland and interstate. Islanders. The TSRA also provided: $6,500 to the TRAWQ Gas Pipeline Council and $3,000 to TSIMA for the local Mabo Day The TSRA Environmental Officer, on behalf of the celebrations conducted by the Meriam Elders; $4,275 TSRA and the ICC, has been negotiating with energy to TSIMA for an Aboriginal dance conference; company Chevron on the proposed gas pipeline to $10,000 to Mura Kosker for celebrations connected to the commemoration of past Thursday Island railway extend from PNG to Australia, to ensure that the workers; $10,000 and $2,286 to the Island appropriate studies are conducted to determine Coordinating Council for a Church Gospel whether the implementation of the pipeline would Eistedfodd and the purchase of a digital camera have an adverse effect on the Torres Strait region and respectively; $6,000 to the Yorke Island Council to its people. Through these negotiations the TSRA is send school children to participate in the Art Festival also aiming to identify ways in which Torres Strait at Laura; and $5,000 to the Boigu Island Council to Islanders would benefit from the project, should it go send school children to the Art Festival at Parramatta. ahead. The TSRA received funds in 1999–2000 from ICC for this purpose. The TSRA thus maintains itself as the logical source of assistance to local individuals and organisations for Indigenous Protected Area and Marine Protected Area whom the maintenance and development of the The establishment of an Indigenous Protected Area at region’s cultural and artistic heritage is a high priority. Deliverance Island (Boigu) and at Pulu Island (Mabuiag) is being facilitated. Also, the TSRA has b) Environment been working cooperatively with Environment Funding Australia and the Island Coordinating Council to complete interim reporting on the feasibility of intro- From a grant of $200,000 received from Environment ducing a Marine Protected Area in the Torres Strait. Australia and rolled over from the previous year, the TSRA disbursed funds in 1999–2000 to – Community Based Management Model Great Barrier Reef The introduction of a Torres Strait Community Based Marine Park Authority – $46,690 Management model – “Straitcare”, to ensure the sus- James Cook University 9,690 tainability of the ocean’s resources through a manage- Consumables & Freight 1,190 ment program which involves the island 5,7570 communities, has been progressed. Annual Report 1999–2000 31

Oil Spills To reduce the incidence of drug abuse, domestic vio- lence, neglect and other symptoms of social dysfunc- Interacting with the Queensland Department of tion affecting the indigenous population of the Torres Transport and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Strait region. the TSRA is ensuring members of island communities are educated about oil spill management on the outer To promote the social and physical wellbeing of the islands. indigenous peoples of the Torres Strait region and the Research Projects development of a positive self-image through increased access to, and participation in, recreation The TSRA has been prioritising research projects for and sporting activities. all fisheries (commercial and traditional) in the Torres Strait, working cooperatively with the Australian Description Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) in regard to This program provides funding for the operational local implementation of fisheries management in the Torres Strait. costs of centres and sporting associations for women, youth, disabled and aged people. It also provides Input to Environmental Committees funding for the hosting of sporting events and associ- Working cooperatively with Environment Australia ated travel requirements, as well as the construction the TSRA is arranging the inclusion of Torres Strait and upgrading of sporting and community facilities Islanders on the Indigenous Advisory Committee. and equipment. On a quarterly basis the TSRA provides input to the In 1999–2000, the TSRA committed a total of Reef Advisory Committee on matters of mutual con- $1,201,617 under this program, with a 91.1% expen- cern regarding the conservation and protection of bio- diture, comprising the following grants: diversity in reefal areas. a) Youth Support and Sports MaSTERS The Marine Strategy for Torres Strait (MaSTERS) has Funding been completed and the TSRA is working with the • $145,875 to the Port Kennedy Association Island Coordinating Council, arranging the produc- (PKA) to assist in meeting the costs of their tion and distribution of this strategy. operations; Research Protocols • $39,464 to the Youth Activities Services (YAS) as a contribution to the costs of their opera- Protocols for research in the Torres Strait have been tions; developed in consultation with the Native Title Office • $253,983 to the Torres Strait Youth & and distributed to research institutions and profes- Recreational Sporting Association (TSYRSA) sional organisations throughout Australia. as a contribution to their operating costs and to the assistance, in terms of both funding and PROGRAMS – SOCIAL expertise, which they provide to the various The TSRA has two social programs: indigenous sporting associations in the Torres Strait. a) Youth Support & Sports • $85,000 to Stephen Island Council for the b) Women’s Issues upgrading of their basketball court. • $300,000 to St Pauls Community Council to Objective continue the construction of a Sports Stadium To ensure that the rights and wellbeing of indigenous (mostly the floor slab). women, youth, the disabled and aged are respected • $60,000 to the Coconut Island Council to and are commensurate with the norm applied in the erect a Grandstand and a Kiosk at their sport- wider Australian community. ing facility. 32 Torres Strait Regional Authority

• $70,000 was committed to the Yam Island Recreation Plan for the whole of the Torres Strait. Council to upgrade their sports oval, but had This Plan, comprising three tiers (local, cluster and to be rolled over into the following financial regional), is now completed. year as the works depended on input from the Department of Primary Industries. During the financial year 1999–2000 there was again • Smaller amounts totalling $65,946 were dis- a significant development and increased presence of tributed among Badu Island Council sport in the Torres Strait. The main sport is still Rugby ($27,900), Port Kennedy Association League, but other codes, such as Australian Rules and ($4,796), TSIMA ($2,750), Dauan ($3,000), Rugby Union, are making good inroads in the com- and the Island Coordinating Council munity and sporting events are very well attended. ($27,500) for the promotion of rugby league, With major upgrades of the sporting facilities avail- including tournaments, mainland NRL teams’ able on Thursday Island and also those on the outer visits, club uniforms and teams’ travel. islands, it is expected that this involvement will Achievements steadily increase. The Port Kennedy Association operations include a b) Women’s Issues play group and a youth social worker, and the organ- isation continues to operate a social enrichment pro- Funding gram. The association also operates a Child Care A grant of $132,265 was provided to the Mura Kosker Centre, which opened during 1997–98. Sorority, an organisation formed to address the issues The activities of the YAS are more modest, as reflect- affecting Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal women ed by their budget. However, the services rendered living in the Torres Strait region. (mostly games, excursions, counselling) are very valuable as they are addressed to the young unem- Achievements ployed, school age adolescents and other “groups at Mura Kosker Sorority is the principal community risk”. based service provider to women and their families The TSYRSA received a total of $253,983, and the within the Torres Strait region. The main services funding enabled various sporting codes (including provided are protection of and support to victims of indoor volleyball, darts, basketball and Rugby League domestic violence, care for the aged and disabled, football) to be conducted through their specific sport- counselling, refuge facilities and child care assistance. ing associations, coaching clinics and competitions The organisation is working very closely with the (including the annual “State of Origin” Rugby League TSRA Women’s Issues Officer, the TSRA Portfolio tournament). The funding also enabled contributions Member for Women Issues and the project staff. Mura to be made to outer islands sports infrastructure, Kosker staff sent a delegation to a women’s conference school sports meetings and sporting exchanges. As in in Darwin and participated in the Lena Passi previous years, the TSYRSA employed a full-time Domestic Violence Workshop. administrator and fulfilled its role as an umbrella Mura Kosker’s corporate performance, however, is organisation for the sporting activities taking place in ordinary as the organisation is still beset by adminis- the Torres Strait, notably the annual Rugby League trative difficulties stemming mainly from insufficient tournaments organised at Badu and on Thursday administrative funds to cater for the various programs Island itself. (mostly State Government funded) which it conducts. The construction of the sporting facilities at St Pauls These programs include Home and Community Care is progressing well and is now half-completed. (HACC), Old Peoples Action Program (OPAP), Victims of Violence Program (Lena Passi Women The Grandstand and Kiosk at Coconut Island are now Shelter) and Emergency Relief Funding (ERF). The completed. main problem is that the State funded projects do not The TSRA contributed $30,000 in 1998–1999 to a include any significant administrative component, joint initiative with the Queensland Government resulting in a series of ad hoc measures designed to ($40,000) in developing a comprehensive Sport & keep the organisation and the programs running. As Annual Report 1999–2000 33

with many organisations, significant improvements in region. The TSRA also aims to improve the standard terms of outcomes depend heavily on the quality of of safety for passengers travelling to and from island their administration. communities by aircraft through the upgrade of airstrips. Output Five – Housing, Environment, Health and Infrastructure Water Upgrade Stage 2

PROGRAM: HOUSING AND Description ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH The completion of Stage 2 of the Water Upgrade The output of Housing and Environmental Health Project will ensure that all 15 outer island communi- Infrastructure aims to increase the number of Torres ties have access to 250 litres of healthy water per per- Strait Islander and Aboriginal persons in the Torres son per day. This is the minimum standard set by the Strait area with access to adequate housing, infra- World Health Organisation. Previously these commu- structure facilities and essential municipal services nities had experienced severe water shortages during consistent with and appropriate to their needs. The long dry seasons – particularly in 1997. The project output also aims to improve the health standard by was jointly funded by the Torres Strait Regional providing appropriate and sustainable infrastructure Authority (TSRA) – $14.2m and the Queensland as well as ensuring that adequate environmental Government through the Department of Aboriginal health programs are implemented. and Torres Strait Islander Policy and Development (DATSIPD) – $7m. In 1999–2000 the TSRA con- This output has one program, Housing and tributed a further $2.2m as part of its overall commit- Environmental Health which is comprised of 2 sub- ment of $14.2m. programs: a) Environmental Health Achievements b) Community Housing Stage 2 of the Water Upgrade Project was implement- ed between January 1998 and September 2000. It SUB PROGRAM: ENVIRONMENTAL comprised works on eight communities (Boigu, HEALTH Dauan, Hammond, Kubin, Murray, Stephen, St Pauls and Yorke Islands) and follows on from the Stage 1 Objective works on seven Torres Strait Islands. In 1999–2000 Through the implementation of two projects – the seven water supply facilities were upgraded in seven Water Upgrade Stage 2 and the Major Infrastructure communities. The only community yet to have its Program (MIP), both of which address the various water supply facilities completed is Hammond Island infrastructure needs of the Torres Strait communities, where construction has commenced and is scheduled the TSRA aims to improve the health status and gen- to be completed in September 2000. eral wellbeing of Torres Strait Islanders living in the

A summary of works Community Works Boigu 20 ML covered excavated storage; desalination system (180 kL/day) Dauan 4 groundwater infiltration systems; 6 ML covered excavated storage Kubin weir and infiltration system; 28 ML uncovered excavated storage Hammond 2 groundwater infiltration systems; submarine pipeline from Thursday Island Murray 20 ML covered excavated storage; desalination system (180 kL.day) St Pauls 2 infiltration systems; 28 ML uncovered excavated storages Stephen 2 groundwater bores; 4 ML covered excavated storages Yorke 24 ML covered excavated storage; provision for temporary desalination. 34 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Major Infrastructure Program (MIP) • The provision of sewerage infrastructure for Boigu and Saibai Islands and water reticulation for Description Saibai Island was incorporated into one contract; this includes the removal of pan toilets and the The Major Infrastructure Program seeks to improve provision of a reticulated sewerage system in the infrastructure standards in the 15 outer island these two communities. A contract was awarded communities as well as Bamaga and Seisia. The TSRA on 14 June 2000 with works to commence in early and the Queensland Government jointly funded July and expected to reach completion in infrastucture projects amounting to $30 million in the December 2000. region from 1999 to 2001. • The works on Dauan water reticulation and roads upgrade were completed in November 1999. The The TSRA has appointed consulting firm Ove Arup Boigu water reticulation works were completed in and Partners to manage the program; Ove Arup has May 2000. appointed a panel of consultants to manage the indi- • The Yam Island sewerage reticulation is complete vidual projects. The consultants have completed and the sewerage treatment plant has been con- extensive consultations with the Torres Strait Islander structed. The Yam water reservoir was completed communities, resulting in detailed planning reports. in May 2000. Tenders for additional works on the These reports identify the numerous health-related Yam Island desalination unit have closed, tenders infrastructure requirements of the 17 Torres Strait are still to be evaluated. It is planned that works communities. will be commissioned early in the 2000–2001 financial year. Achievements • Works on the Badu Water Supply have been com- pleted. This involved the construction of a reser- In the 1999–2000 financial year many works were voir, wells and treatment plant. The works on the commenced or completed in the island communities Badu Drainage system are scheduled to be com- under the MIP. pleted in August 2000. • The sewerage system in Seisia community will be • Works on the St Pauls water reticulation system improved through the upgrading of defective sep- are 80% complete and are scheduled to reach tic systems, the upgrading of grey water collection completion in September 2000. St Pauls Council systems and the construction of three additional is undertaking the works. ablution blocks. Construction will be undertaken • Toilet pan conversion works on Yorke, Kubin, St by Seisia Island Council and is scheduled to reach Pauls and Hammond communities were complet- completion in October 2000. ed by August 2000.

Summary of Works Community Infrastructure Status Seisia Upgrade septic systems in the community, and provide improved Under construction facilities within the local campground. Hammond Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision Completed of new w/c’s where required.

Boigu Provision of a reticulated sewerage system, including a package treatment Works just commenced plant and ocean outfall, and provision of facilities at all houses. Saibai Provision of a reticulated sewerage system, including a package treatment Works just commenced plant and ocean outfall, and provision of necessary facilities at all houses. Upgrade of the reticulated water system including enlarging the lagoon Works just commenced and replacing the lagoon liner and cover. Includes connecting pipework to the existing main and level monitoring and control equipment at the lagoon and reservoir sites. Annual Report 1999–2000 35

Summary of Works continued Community Infrastructure Status Dauan Minor water reticulation works Completed Coconut Extension of water reticulation system and provision of water bores for Completed use with the mobile desalination plant. Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision of To be done new w/c’s where required. Warraber Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision of To be done new w/c’s where required. Yam Provision of a reticulated sewerage system, including a package treatment Sewer work completed plant and ocean outfall, and provision of necessary facilities at all houses. Reticulated water supply, the provision of a new reservoir (2 ML concrete Reservoir and bores tank) and two new bores for use with the desalination plant. completed Also includes the upgrade of the desalination plant to 180 kL/day. Desal plant to be done Yorke Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision of Almost completed new w/c’s or ablutions where required. Disposal of grey water into separate trenches. Some minor upgrade works on Yorke water reticulation. Progressing Kubin Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision Completed of new w/c’s where required. St Pauls Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision of Completed new w/c’s where required. Extension of water reticulation system (works by Council) Continuing Badu Water – provision of 3 new wells (and access road), associated pipelines, Completed a new water treatment plant, and new reservoir (1.8 ML concrete tank) Drainage – stage 1 of surface drainage works, designed to dispose of 75% complete ponding water in low lying areas. Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision To be done of new w/c’s where required. Mabuiag Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision To be done of new w/c’s where required. Darnley Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision To be done of new w/c’s or ablutions where required. Disposal of grey water into separate trenches. Upgrade of water treatment plant. To be done Stephen Conversion of all pan toilets to septic systems, including the provision of new w/c’s where required. Murray Provision of a reticulated sewerage system, including a package treatment To be done plant and ocean outfall and provision of necessary facilities at all houses. Upgrade works to water reticulation system Progressing Regional Each community continuing with septic systems will have ready access Badu unit supplied to a septic pump-out truck. 36 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Airstrips Commonwealth Government and the Torres Strait Regional Authority. This Agreement adopts a holistic Description and “whole of Government” approach to the coordi- In 1999–2000 the TSRA contributed $300,000 to the nation and planning of housing and related infrastruc- Queensland Department of Transport towards the ture within the Torres Strait, recognising particularly cost of hard surfacing the airstrips with crushed rock. the need for integration of housing with delivery of The TSRA released an amount of $600,000 ($300,000 related infrastructure, Ailan Kastom and native title each) to the Queensland Department of Transport as rights. It also recognises an ongoing responsibility to a contribution to the upgrading and paving of the ensure that the provision of maintenance, training and airstrips at Saibai and Kubin. operational services are addressed.”

Achievements Achievements The sealing of Kubin airstrip is now complete and The TSRA entered into contracts of sale to purchase works are currently in progress at Saibai Island. Stage three areas of excess Commonwealth land from the 2 of the upgrading/sealing of the Saibai Island airstrip Department of Finance and Administration. is planned for September 2000. Settlement is scheduled for September 2000. The land will be used to provide appropriate private and rental SUB PROGRAM – COMMUNITY housing for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal peo- HOUSING ple living in the Torres Strait region. Objective The connections from 64 dwellings to the main sew- The provision of adequate and appropriate housing erage line on Thursday Island were completed without for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living a hitch, to the great satisfaction of the two indigenous in the Torres Strait region. housing cooperatives involved.

Description Output 6 – Policy and Information In 1999–2000, the TSRA co-signed the Bilateral Objective Commonwealth/State Housing Agreement, with the Island Coordinating Council (ICC), the Minister for To provide information to the Minister, the TSRA Family and Community Services and the Minister for Board and the public on the TSRA’s policies, goals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs repre- progress and achievements. senting the Commonwealth of Australia, and the Minister for Housing and the Minister for Aboriginal Achievements and Torres Strait Islander Policy, representing the The TSRA advised the Minister on matters relating to State of Queensland. This Agreement represents a Torres Strait Islander affairs and Aboriginal affairs in milestone in Commonwealth/State cooperation in the Torres Strait area, including the administration of relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander legislation and co-ordination of the activities of other Housing and related infrastructure issues, as it out- Commonwealth bodies. lines a framework within which the delivery of hous- ing and infrastructure programs will be planned and During the year the administration provided 15 brief- coordinated, thereby rendering it more efficient. To ing papers for the Board’s consideration. The Board quote the Preamble to the Agreement: made 23 formal decisions. A total of 42 items of cor- respondence, including Ministerials, were prepared for “The main objective of this Agreement is to plan and the Minister. coordinate housing and related infrastructure, to achieve equitable outcomes for Torres Strait Islander A Public Relations Officer produced press releases, and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait regular newsletters, an annual report and information region. It does this by establishing a partnership brochures. A website and Service Charter were also between the Queensland Government, the maintained. Annual Report 1999–2000 37

Torres Strait Regional Authority

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1999 – 2000 38 Torres Strait Regional Authority Annual Report 1999–2000 39 40 Torres Strait Regional Authority

TORRES STRAIT

REGIONAL AUTHORITY

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1999 – 2000

CONTENTS

OPERATING STATEMENT

BALANCE SHEET

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

SCHEDULE OF COMMITMENTS

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Annual Report 1999–2000 41 42 Torres Strait Regional Authority

OPERATING STATEMENT For the year ended 30 June 2000 Notes 2000 1999 $000 $000 Operating revenues Revenues from government 5A 44,352 40,307 Interest 5B 154 132 Other 5C 464 627 Total operating revenues 44,970 41,066

Operating expenses Employees 6A 2,073 1,728 Suppliers 6B 1,939 1,495 Depreciation and amortisation 6C 466 373 Write-down of assets 6D 144 45 Grants 7 36,433 36,940 Total operating expenses 41,055 40,581

Net surplus 3,915 485

Net surplus attributable to the Commonwealth 3,915 485 Accumulated surpluses at beginning of reporting period 12,707 12,222 Total available for appropriation 16,622 12,707 Capital use provided for or paid 1.14 (1,619) –

Accumulated surpluses at end of reporting period 15,003 12,707

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. Annual Report 1999–2000 43

BALANCE SHEET as at 30 June 2000 Notes 2000 1999 $000 $000 ASSETS Financial assets Cash 8A 6,876 4,459 Receivables 8B 5,364 3,655 Total financial assets 12,240 8,114

Non-financial assets Land and buildings 9A,C 8,972 8,248 Infrastructure, plant and equipment 9B,C 668 696 Other 9D – 11 Total non-financial assets 9,640 8,955

Total assets 21,880 17,069

LIABILITIES Provisions and payables Employees 10A 699 523 Suppliers 10B 463 67 Grants 10C 3,206 2,535 Other 10D 1,311 39 Total provisions and payables 5,679 3,164

Total liabilities 5,679 3,164

EQUITY Reserves 11 1,198 1,198 Accumulated Surpluses 11 15,003 12,707 Total equity 16,201 13,905

Total liabilities and equity 21,880 17,069

Current liabilities 5,426 2,848 Non-current liabilities 186 316 Current assets 10,695 4,602 Non-current assets 11,185 12,482 The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 44 Torres Strait Regional Authority

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the year ended 30 June 2000 Notes 2000 1999 $000 $000 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Cash received Appropriations 44,352 40,294 Sales of goods and services 117 157 Interest 154 314 Other 343 273 Total cash received 44,966 41,038

Cash used Grants (35,762) (35,641) Employees (1,898) (1,651) Suppliers (1,556) (1,493) Total cash used (39,216) (38,785)

Net cash from operating activities 12 5,750 2,253

INVESTING ACTIVITIES Cash received Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment 4 4 Repayment of loans 745 590 Total cash received 749 594 Cash used Purchase of property, plant and equipment (1,162) (276) Loans made (1,301) (1,435) Total cash used (2,463) (1,711)

Net cash from investing activities (1,714) (1,711)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES Cash used Capital use paid (1,619) – Total cash used (1,619) –

Net cash from financing activities (1,619) –

Net increase in cash held 2,417 1,136 Cash at the beginning of the reporting period 4,459 3,323 Cash at the end of the reporting period 8A 6,876 4,459 The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. Annual Report 1999–2000 45

SCHEDULE OF COMMITMENTS as at 30 June 2000 Notes 2000 1999 $000 $000 BY TYPE

Other Commitments

Operating Leases1 96 101 Total other commitments

BY MATURITY

All net commitments One year or less 33 22 From one to two years 22 33 From two to five years 41 46 Net commitments 96 101

Operating lease commitments One year or less 33 22 From one to two years 22 33 From two to five years 41 46 Net operating lease commitments 96 101

NB: All 1999–00 commitments are GST inclusive where relevant. The comparatives have not been adjusted to reflect the GST.

The above schedule should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

1 Operating leases included are effectively non-cancellable and comprise agreements for the provision of motor vehicles to senior executive officers. 46 Torres Strait Regional Authority

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 30 June 2000

Note Description 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 2 Reporting by segments and outcomes 3 Economic Dependency 4 Subsequent Events 5 Operating Revenues 6 Operating Expenses – Goods and Services 7 Operating Expenses – Grants 8 Financial Assets 9 Non-Financial Assets 10 Provisions and Payables 11 Equity 12 Cash Flow Reconciliation 13 Remuneration of Directors 14 Related Party Disclosures 15 Remuneration of Officers 16 Remuneration of Auditors 17 Appropriations 18 Financial Instruments Annual Report 1999–2000 47

Notes to and forming part of the financial 1.4 Appropriations statements From 1 July 1999, the Commonwealth Budget has Note 1 Summary of Significant been prepared under an accruals framework. Under this framework, Parliament appropriates moneys to Accounting Policies the Authority as revenue appropriations. 1.1 Basis of Accounting Revenue Appropriations The financial statements are required by clause 1(b) of Schedule 1 to the Commonwealth Authorities and Revenues from government are revenues of the core Companies Act 1997 and are a general purpose finan- operating activities of the Authority. cial report. Appropriations for outputs are recognised as revenue The statements have been prepared in accordance to the extent they have been received into the with: Authority’s Bank account or are entitled to be received by the Authority at year end. Requirements for the Preparation of Financial Statements of Commonwealth Agencies and Resources Received Free of Charge Authorities made by the Minister for Finance and Administration in August 1999 (Schedule 2 to the Services received free of charge are recognised in the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Operating Statement as revenue when and only when (CAC) Orders); a fair value can be reliably determined and the ser- vices would have been purchased if they had not been Australian Accounting Standards; donated. Use of those resources is recognised as an other authoritative pronouncements of the expense. Australian Accounting Standards Boards; and Contributions of assets at no cost of acquisition or for the Consensus Views of the Urgent Issues Group. nominal consideration are recognised at their fair value as revenue and an asset when the Authority The statements have been prepared having regard to: gains control over the contributed asset and the asset Statements of Accounting Concepts; and qualifies for recognition. the Explanatory Notes to Schedule 2 issued by the 1.5 Other Revenue Department of Finance and Administration. Interest revenue is recognised on a proportional basis The financial statements have been prepared on an taking into account the interest rates applicable to the accrual basis and are in accordance with historical financial assets. cost convention, except for certain assets which, as noted, are at valuation. Except where stated, no Revenue from disposal of non-current assets is recog- allowance is made for the effect of changing prices on nised when control of the asset has passed to the the results or the financial position of the Authority. buyer. 1.2 Changes in Accounting Policy Revenue from the rendering of a service is recognised by reference to the stage of completion of contracts or Changes in accounting policy have been identified in other agreements to provide services to this note under their appropriate headings. Commonwealth bodies. The stage of completion is 1.3 Reporting by Outcomes determined according to the proportion that costs incurred to date bear to the estimated total costs of A comparison of Budget and Actual figures by out- the transaction. come specified in the Appropriation Acts relevant to the Authority is presented in Note 2. Any intra-gov- Core Operations ernment costs included in the figure ‘net cost to All material revenues described in this note are rev- Budget outcomes’ are eliminated in calculating the enues relating to the core operating activities of the actual budget outcome for the Government overall. 48 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Authority, whether in their own right or on behalf of extinguish the accruing liability which is assumed by the Commonwealth. Details of revenue amounts are the Commonwealth. given in Note 5. Employer Superannuation Productivity Benefit con- 1.6 Grants tributions totalled $46,013 (1998–99: $41,990) for The Authority receives an annual appropriation for the Authority. the Community Development Employment Program, 1.8 Cash community training, social justice, social well being and cultural heritage and development based on an Cash includes notes and coins held and any deposits agreed formula with the Commonwealth. held at call with a bank or financial institution. The Authority recognises grant liabilities as follows. 1.9 Financial Instruments Most grant agreements require the grantee to perform Accounting policies for financial instruments are stat- services or provide facilities, or to meet eligibility cri- ed at Note 18. teria. In these cases, liabilities are recognised only to 1.10 Acquisition of Assets the extent that the services required have been per- formed or the eligibility criteria have been satisfied by Assets are recorded at cost on acquisition except as the grantee. stated below. The cost of acquisition includes the fair value of assets transferred in exchange and liabilities 1.7 Employee Entitlements undertaken. Leave Assets acquired at no cost, or for nominal considera- The liability for employee entitlements includes pro- tion, are initially recognised as assets and revenues at vision for annual leave, vesting sick leave and long their fair value at the date of acquisition. service leave. Sick leave has been provided in 1999–2000 as a result of a signed Workplace 1.11 Property, plant and equipment Agreement. Asset recognition threshold The liabilities for annual leave and vesting sick leave Purchases of property, plant and equipment are recog- reflects the value of total leave entitlements of all nised initially at cost in the Balance Sheet, except for employees at 30 June 2000 and are recognised at their purchases costing less than $1,000, which are nominal amounts. expended in the year of acquisition (other than where The non-current portion of the liability for long ser- they form part of a group of similar items which are vice leave is recognised and measured at the present significant in total). value of the estimated future cash flows to be made in Revaluations respect of all employees at 30 June 2000. In deter- mining the present value of the liability, attrition rates As there is a restricted market for sales of land and and pay increases through promotion and inflation buildings on Thursday Island, it has been decided have been taken into account. that the Authority’s land, buildings, infrastructure, Superannuation plant and equipment be revalued in accordance with the ‘deprival’ method of valuation in successive 3-year Employees contribute to the Commonwealth cycles by independent valuers. Superannuation Scheme and the Public Sector Superannuation Scheme. Employer contributions The requirements of Schedule 2 are being implement- amounting to $158,543 (1998–99: $154,384) for the ed as follows: Authority in relation to these schemes have been freehold land, buildings on freehold land and expensed in these financial statements. plant and equipment were revalued in April 1998. No liability is shown for superannuation in the The next revaluation would be conducted in Balance Sheet as the employer contributions fully April 2001. Annual Report 1999–2000 49

Property, plant and equipment is recognised at its The aggregate amount of depreciation allocated for depreciated replacement cost. each class of asset during the reporting period is dis- Any assets which would not be replaced or are sur- closed in Note 6C. plus to requirements are valued at net realisable value. 1.12 Leases At 30 June 2000, the Authority had no assets in this situation. A distinction is made between finance leases which effectively transfer from the lessor to the lessee sub- Recoverable amount test stantially all the risks and benefits incidental to own- The carrying amount of each item of non-current ership of leased non-current assets and operating property plant and equipment assets is reviewed to leases under which the lessor effectively retains sub- determine whether it is in excess of the asset’s recov- stantially all such risks and benefits. erable amount. If an excess exists as at the reporting date, the assets is written down to its recoverable Operating lease payments are expensed on a basis amount immediately. In assessing recoverable which is representative of the pattern of benefits amounts, the relevant cash flows, including the derived from the leased assets. expected cash inflows from future appropriations by the Parliament, have been discounted to their present 1.13 Taxation values. The Authority is exempt from all forms of taxation The application of the recoverable amount test to the except fringe benefits tax and the goods and services not-for-profit departmental non-current assets of the tax. Authority is a change of accounting policy required by the Finance Minister’s Orders in 1999–2000. The 1.14 Capital Usage Charge new policy is being applied from the beginning of A capital usage charge of 12% is imposed by the 1999–2000. No write-down to recoverable amount Commonwealth on the net assets of the Authority. has been made in 1999–2000 as a result of this change in policy. The charge is adjusted to take account of asset gifts and revaluation increments during the financial year. Depreciation 1.15 Comparative Figures Depreciable property, plant and equipment assets are written-off to their estimated residual values over Comparative figures have been adjusted to conform their estimated useful lives to the Authority using, in to changes in presentation in these financial state- all cases, the straight line method of depreciation. ments where required. Depreciation rates (useful lives) and methods are Comparatives are not presented in Notes dealing with reviewed at each balance date and necessary adjust- the Reporting on Outcomes, due to 1999–2000 being ments are recognised in the current, or current and the first year of the implementation of accrual bud- future reporting periods, as appropriate. Residual val- ues are re-estimated for a change in prices only when geting. assets are revalued. 1.16 Rounding Depreciation rates applying to each class of Amounts have been rounded to the nearest $1,000 Depreciable asset are based on the following useful except in relation to the following: lives: 1999–2000 1998–99 Remuneration of directors; Buildings on freehold land 50 years 50 years Remuneration of officers (other than directors); and Plant and equipment 3 to 5 years 5 years Remuneration of auditors. 50 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 2. Reporting by segments and outcomes Reporting by segments The Authority operates primarily in a single industry and geographic segment, being the administration of govern- ment programs in Australia. The Authority is structured to meet one outcome: Outcome 1: To achieve a better quality of life and to develop an economic base for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait.

Reporting by Outcomes for 1999–2000 Outcome 1 Budget Actual $000 $000 Net cost of entity outputs 45,092 41,055 Net Cost to Budget Outcome 44,352 41,055

Total assets deployed as at 30/6/00 15,035 21,880 Net assets deployed as at 30/6/00 15,005 16,201

Reporting by Outcomes by funding sources for 1999-2000

Outcomes Outputs Total Appro- Total priations Expenses $000 $000 $000 Expenses against Revenue from Expense Total Government (Appropriations) against Expenses (B) Revenue against from Outputs (D) = (B) Special Annual Total other Appro- Appro- sources priation priaton (C) Acts Outcome 1 • Actual – 44,352 44,352 618 41,055 44,352 41,055 • Budget – 44,352 44,352 740 45,092 44,352 41,055 Appropriation Act 2 Capital • Actual – • Budget – Total Appropriations • Actual (1) 44,352 • Budget 44,352

(1) It is not possible to identify expenses incurred against specific funding sources in all cases. Annual Report 1999–2000 51

Note 3. Economic Dependency The Authority was established under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989. The Authority is dependent on appropriations from the Parliament of the Commonwealth for its continued exis- tence and ability to carry out its normal activities.

Note 4. Subsequent Events In July 2000, a new Workplace Agreement was signed which provides for the payment of unused sick leave. A pro- vision for vesting sick leave was taken up at 30 June 2000, for $140,631. 2000 1999 $000 $000 Note 5. Operating Revenues Note 5A – Revenues from Government Appropriations 44,352 40,294 Resources received free of charge – 13 Total 44,352 40,307 Note 5B – Interest Loans 154 132 Total 154 132 5C – Other Revenues Rent 117 156 Other 347 471 Total 464 627

Note 6. Operating Expenses – Goods and Services 6A – Employee expenses Remuneration (for services provided) 2,017 1,631 Other employee expenses 56 97 Total 2,073 1,728 The Authority contributes to the Commonwealth Superannuation (CSS) and the Public Sector Superannuation (PSS) schemes which provide retirement, death and disability benefits to employees. Contributions to the schemes are at rates calculated to cover existing and emerging obligations. Current contribution rates are 21.1% of salary (CSS) and 11.1% of salary (PSS). An additional 3% is contributed for employer productivity benefits. 6B – Suppliers expenses Supply of goods and services 1,901 1,473 Operating lease rentals 38 22 Total 1,939 1,495

6C – Depreciation Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 466 373 52 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 6. Operating Expenses – Goods and Services (continued) The aggregate amounts of depreciation expensed during the reporting period for each class of depreciable asset are as follows: 2000 1999 $000 $000

♣ Buildings on Freehold Land 152 133 ♣ Infrastructure, plant and equipment 314 240 Total allocated 466 373

6D – Write-down of assets Financial assets: Receivables – doubtful debts 144 45 Note 7. Operating Expense – Grants The Authority makes grants to eligible persons and communities in the Torres Strait area. The accounting policy for grants is detailed in Note 1.6. Non-Profit institutions 36,433 36,940

Note 8. Financial Assets 8A – Cash Cash at bank and on hand 1,851 4,459 Term Deposits 5,025 – 6,876 4,459 Balance of cash as at 30 June shown in the Statement of Cash Flows 6,876 4,459

8B – Receivables Loans 5,496 3,666 Less: Provision of doubtful debts (152) (25) 5,344 3,641

Other Debtors 20 14 Total receivables 5,364 3,655 Annual Report 1999–2000 53

Note 8. Financial Assets (continued) Receivables (gross) which are overdue are aged as follows: 2000 1999 $000 $000 Not Overdue 3,819 2,374 Overdue by: – less than 30 days 99 84 – 30 to 60 days 272 194 – 60 to 90 days 108 131 – more than 90 days 1,218 897 1,697 1,306

Total receivables (gross) 5,516 3,680

Note 9. Non Financial Assets 9A Land and Buildings Freehold Land – at 1998-99 valuation 1,600 1,600 Freehold Land – at cost 58 –

Total Freehold Land 1,658 1,600

Buildings on freehold land – at cost 1,278 462 Accumulated depreciation (25) (9) 1,253 453 Buildings on freehold land – at 1998-99 valuation 6,341 6,341 Accumulated depreciation (280) (146) 6,061 6,648

Total Buildings (net) 7,314 6,648

Total Land and Buildings 8,972 8,248

9B Infrastructure, plant and equipment Infrastructure, plant and equipment – at cost 1,419 1,185 Accumulated depreciation (868) (629) 551 556 Infrastructure, plant and equipment – at 1998-99 valuation 275 275 Accumulated depreciation (158) (135) 117 140 Total infrastructure, plant and equipment 668 696 54 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 9. Non Financial Assets (continued) 9C Analysis of Land, Buildings and Plant & Equipment TABLE A Movement summary 1999–00 for all assets irrespective of valuation basis Item Land Buildings Total Land Plant & TOTAL & Buildings Equipment $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 Gross value as at 1 July 1999 1,600 6,803 8,403 1,460 9,863 Additions: • Replacement assets – – – 285 285 •Acquisitions of New Assets 58 816 874 1 875 Disposals – – – (52) (52)

Gross value as at 30 June 2000 1,658 7,619 9,277 1,694 10,971 Accumulated Depreciation as at N/A 155 155 764 919 1 July 1999 Depreciation charge for assets held N/A 125 125 266 391 1 July 1999 Depreciation charge for additions N/A 25 25 48 73 Disposals N/A – – (52) (52) Accumulated Depreciation as at N/A 305 305 1,026 1,331 30 June 2000 Net Book value as at 30 June 2000 1,658 7,314 8,972 668 9,640 Net book value as at 1 July 1999 1,600 6,648 8,248 696 8,944

TABLE B Summary of balances of assets at valuation as at 30 June 2000

Item Land Buildings Total Land Plant & TOTAL & Buildings Equipment $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 As at 30 June 2000 Gross Value 1,600 6,341 7,941 275 8,216 Accumulated Depreciation N/A (280) (280) (158) (438) Net Book Value 1,600 6,061 7,661 117 7,778 As at 30 June 1999 Gross Value 1,600 6,341 7,941 275 8,216 Accumulated Depreciation N/A (146) (146) (135) (281) Net Book Value 1,600 6,195 7,795 140 7,935 Annual Report 1999–2000 55

Note 9. Non Financial Assets (continued) 2000 1999 $000 $000 9D. Other non-financial assets Other prepayments – 11

Note 10. Provisions and Payables 10A – Employees Salaries and wages 105 102 Leave 594 421 Aggregate employee entitlement liability 699 523

10B – Suppliers Trade Creditors 463 67

10C – Grants liabilities Non-profit institutions 3,206 2,535

10D – Other Loans contract 1,311 39 56 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 11. Equity

Item Accumulated Asset revaluation TOTAL results reserve EQUITY 2000 1999 2000 1999 2000 1999 $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 Balance 1 July 12,707 12,222 1,198 1,198 13,905 13,420 Operating result 3,915 485 – – 3,915 485 Net revaluation increase/(Decrease) – – – – – – Transfers to/(from) Reserve – – – – – – Injection of Capital – – – – – – Capital Use Charge (1,619) – – – (1,619) – Changes in accounting Policies – – – – – – Balance 30 June 15,003 12,707 1,198 1,198 16,201 13,905

Note 12. Cash Flow Reconciliation Reconciliation of operating surplus to net cash provided by operating activities: 2000 1999 $000 $000

Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 3,915 485 Depreciation of property, plant & equipment 466 373 Resources received free of charge – 13 Doubtful loans 144 45 Changes in assets and liabilities (Increase)/decrease in receivables (6) (14) Increase/(decrease) in liability to suppliers 396 2 Increase/(decrease) in employee provisions 176 77 Increase/(decrease) in grants payable 671 1,299 Other (12) (66) Net cash provided by operating activities 5,750 2,253 Annual Report 1999–2000 57

2000 1999 $000 $000 Note 13. Remuneration of Directors Aggregate amount of superannuation payments in 13 12 connection with the retirement of directors

Other remuneration received or due and receivable by 185 208 directors of the Authority

Total remuneration received or due and receivable by 198 220 directors of the Authority

The number of directors of the Authority included in these figures are shown below in the relevant remuneration bands. Number $ Nil – $10,000 22 16 $10,001 – $20,000 3 3 $90,001 – $100,000 – 1 $100,001 – $110,000 1 – – 26 20 The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Board consists of 20 director positions. Eighteen hold office by virtue of their election to Island Council Chairpersons last held in March 2000 under the Queensland Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984. The other two are elected in accordance with the ATSIC Act 1989. The Chairperson receives a salary of $103,950 pa. The other directors receive sitting fees when undertaking business of the TSRA. Six direc- tors were replaced at the March 2000 elections.

Note 14. Related Party Disclosures Directors of the Torres Strait Regional Authority The Directors of the Authority during the year were: Mr John ABEDNEGO (Former Chairperson) Mrs Margaret MAU Mr Jack AHMAT Mr Don MOSBY (commenced 01/04/00) Mr Ted BILLY Mr Joseph MOSBY (ceased 01/04/00) Mr Phillip BOWIE (commenced 01/04/00) Mr Francis PEARSON (commenced 01/04/00) Mr Edward DAU Mr Gibson PEARSON (ceased 01/04/00) Mr Ron DAY Mr Saila SAVAGE (commenced 01/04/00) Mr George DEWIS (ceased 01/04/00)) Mr Henley STEPHEN (Deceased) Mr Elia DOOLAH Mr Pedro STEPHEN (commenced 01/04/00) Mr Joseph ELU Mr Rocky STEPHEN (ceased 01/04/00) Mr Henry GARNIER Mr Terry WAIA (Chairperson elected 01/04/00) Fr Saletelu JOE (ceased 01/04/00) Dr Roney WASAGA (ceased 01/04/00) Mr Toshie KRIS (commenced 01/04/00) Mr Terrence WHAP Mr Miseron LEVI (ceased 01/04/00) Mr Reg WILLIAMS Mr Getano LUI Jnr. The aggregate remuneration of Directors is disclosed in Note 13. 58 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 14. Related Party Disclosures (continued) Loans to Directors and Director related entities Loans were made to the following director and director related entities. They were approved under normal terms and conditions applying to the TSRA Loan Scheme. The directors involved took no part in the relevant decisions of the Board. Loans 2000 1999 $ $

Loans to directors outstanding at year end: 199,841 118,047 Loans to directors during period: 17,041 126,123 Loan repayments during the reporting period: 35,322 8,876

Loans to director related entities outstanding: 48,185 138,123 Loans to director related entities during period: 38,273 16,061 Loan repayments during the reporting period: 18,173 23,502

Interest revenue included in operating result from loans to 6,258 1,064 directors/director related entities

Other Transactions with Directors or Director related entities The following directors served on organisations which were in receipt of funding from the Torres Strait Regional Authority during the financial year. Director’s Name Council Grants Received $ J. Abednego TSIMA 550,254 TRAWQ Community Council 1,581,836 J. Ahmat Badu Island Community Council 3,541,849 T. Billy Warraber Island Community Council 1,123,772 TSNP Legal Service 348,888 R. Day Murray Island Community Council 1,571,963 E. Dau Boigu Island Community Council 1,372,145 G. Dewis Port Kennedy Association 151,096 TSIMA 550,254 E. Doolah Darnley Island Community Council 1,311,498 J. Elu Seisia Island Community Council 1,531,635 TSNP Legal Service 348,888 H. Garnier Hammond Island Community Council 650,872 S. Joe Kubin Community Council 1,386,835 T. Kris St Pauls Community Council 2,025,369 M. Levi St Pauls Community Council 2,025,369 G. Lui Yam Island Community Council 1,524,204 M. Mau Dauan Island Community Council 940,071 Annual Report 1999–2000 59

Note 14. Related Party Disclosures (continued) Director’s Name Council Grants Received $ D. Mosby Yorke Island Community Council 1,447,911 J. Mosby Yorke Island Community Council 1,447,911 TSNP Legal Service 348,888 F. Pearson Coconut Island Community Council 1,196,288 G. Pearson Coconut Island Community Council 1,196,288 S. Savage Kubin Community Council 1,386,835 P. Stephen Port Kennedy Association 151,096 R. Stephen Stephen Island Council 108,565 T. Waia Saibai Island Community Council 1,218,267 T. Whap Mabuiag Island Community Council 563,689 R. Williams Bamaga Island Community Council 2,561,082 * Island Coordinating Council 8,416,237

* All current directors are also directors of the Island Coordinating Council. 2000 1999 $ $ Note 15. Remuneration of Officers Income received or due and receivable by officers 93,321 90,285

The number of officers included in these figures are shown below in the relevant income bands. Number • $90,001 – $100,000 1 1 The officer remuneration includes all officers concerned with or taking part in the management of the Authority during 1999–00. 2000 1999

Note 16. Remuneration of Auditors Remuneration to the Auditor-General for auditing the financial $29,477 $28,000 statements for the reporting period.

No other services were provided by the Auditor-General during the reporting period.

Note 17.Appropriations The Authority received the following appropriations during the year out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Annual Appropriations Acts Nos 1.3 – basic appropriation $44,352 $40,307 60 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 18 Financial Instruments a) Terms, conditions and accounting policies

Financial Instrument Notes Accounting Policies and Methods Nature of underlying instrument (including recognition criteria and (including significant terms and con- measurement basis) ditions affecting the amount, timing and certainty of cash flows) Financial Assets Financial assets are recognised when control over future economic benefits is established and the amount of the benefit can be reliably measured. Deposits at call 8A Deposits are recognised at their Temporarily surplus funds, mainly nominal amounts. Interest is from monthly drawdowns of appropri- credited to revenue as it accrues. ation, are placed on deposit at call with the Authority’s banker. Interest is earned on the daily balance at the prevailing daily rate for money on call and is paid at month end. Other Debtors 8B These receivables are recognised at Credit terms are net 14 days the nominal amounts due less any (1998–99: 14 days) provision for bad and doubtful debts. Provisions are made when collection of the debt is judged to be less rather than more likely. Loans 8B Loans are recognised at the Loans are made secured for periods up amounts lent. Provision is made to 10 years. Repayments of principal for bad and doubtful loans when are made in full at maturity. Early collection of the loan or part settlement is at option for the parties. thereof is judged to be less rather Effective interest rates on fixed rate than more likely. In rare circum- loans average 1.75%. stances, loan repayments may be waived. Interest is credited to revenue as it accrues. Term Deposit 8D Term deposits is recognised at cost. Term deposits are with the Authority’s Interest is recognised as it accrues. bank, and earn an effective rate of interest of 4.75% payable quarterly. Financial Liabilities Financial liabilities are recognised when a present obligation to another party is entered into and the amount of the liability can be reliably measured. Trade Creditors 10B Creditors and accruals are Settlement is usually made net 30 days. recognised at their nominal amounts, being the amounts at which the liabilities will be settled. Liabilities are recognised to the extent that the goods or services have been received (and irrespective of having been invoiced). Annual Report 1999–2000 61 – – – – – – 3 1.75 $000 98–99 – – – – – 3 Effective Interest Rate % 4.75 1.75 $000 99–00 – 67 39 14 106 106 4,459 8,139 3,666 98–99 $000 20 463 1,311 1,774 1,774 1,815 5,025 5,496 99–00 $000 12,356 – – – 39 67 14 14 106 106 98–99 $000 – – – 20 20 463 1,311 99–00 $000 – – – – – 2,538 2,538 98–99 $000 – – – – 2,891 2,891 99–00 $000 – – – – 708 708 98–99 $000 – – – – 835 835 99–00 $000 – – – – 302 302 98–99 $000 – – – – 334 334 99–00 $000 – – – – 118 118 98–99 $000 – – – 6,461 5,025 1,436 99–00 $000 – – – – 4,459 4,459 98–99 $000 – –– ––––––– – – – 1,851 99–00 $000 Financial NotesInstrument Floating Rate Rate Interest 1 year or less Interest 1 to 2 yearsFinancial Assets Fixed 2 to 5 years(Recognised) > 5yearsCash at Bank 8A Bearing Non-Interest Total 1,851 Total Weighted Financial Liabilities (Recognised) Average 10B Trade Loan 10D –Total – –Total – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – 1,774 – – 1,774 Financial Assets (Recognised) Creditors Contracted Financial Liabilities (Recognised) Liabilities Term DepositTerm 8A Other Debtors 8B Loans 8B Note 18 Financial Instruments (continued) Rate Risk b) Interest 62 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Note 18 Financial Instruments (continued) Net Fair Values of Financial Assets and Liabilities 1999–00 1998–99 Note Total Aggregate Total Aggregate carrying net fair carrying net fair amount value amount value $000 $000 $000 $000 Financial Assets Cash at Bank 8A 1,851 1,851 4,459 4,459 Term Deposit 8A 5,025 5,065 – – Other Debtors 8B 20 20 14 14 Loans Receivables 8B 5,496 5,344 3,666 3,641 Total Financial Assets 12,392 12,280 8,139 8,114

Financial Liabilities (Recognised) Trade creditors 10B 463 463 67 67 Loan Contracted 1,311 1,311 39 39 Total Financial Liabilities (Recognised) 1,774 1,774 106 106

Financial assets The net fair values of cash, deposits on call and non-interest-bearing monetary financial assets approximate their carrying amounts. The net fair values of the term deposit are based on discounted cash flows using current interest rates for asset with similar risk profiles. Financial liabilities The net fair values for trade creditors, grant liabilities, all of which are short-term in nature, are approximated by their carrying amounts.

d) Credit Risk Exposures The economic entity’s maximum exposures to credit risk at reporting date in relation to each class of recognised financial assets is the carrying amount of those assets as indicated in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The economic entity has no significant exposures to any concentrations of credit risk. All figures for credit risk referred to do not take into account the value of any collateral or other security. Annual Report 1999–2000 63

APPENDIXES

Appendix 1: TSRA Grants Recipient Purpose $

Badu Island Council CDEP wages 2,342,720 CDEP operational 747,047 Contribution to council operating expenses 123,682 Community training 159,000 BRACS 31,500 Community hall upgrade 110,000 Cordukes cup & under 21’s 27,900 Bamaga Island Council CDEP wages 1,402,311 CDEP operational 451,217 Contribution to council operating expenses 144,554 Community training 146,500 BRACS 16,500 Bamaga motel development 400,000 Boigu Island Council CDEP wages 845,999 CDEP operational 317,231 Contribution to council operating expenses 136,415 Community training 51,000 BRACS 16,500 Malu Kiwai State School tour 5,000 Coconut Island Council CDEP wages 733,207 CDEP operational 269,695 Contribution to council operating expenses 65,886 Community training 51,000 BRACS 16,500 Grandstand & kiosk 60,000 Darnley Island Council CDEP wages 940,965 CDEP operational 234,561 Contribution to council operating expenses 111,702 Community training 7,770 BRACS 16,500 Dauan Island Council CDEP wages 465,735 CDEP operational 192,509 Contribution to council operating expenses 151,327 Community training 56,000 BRACS 31,500 Guest house 40,000 1999 Island of Origin sponsorship 3,000 Hammond Island Council CDEP wages 371,060 CDEP operational 136,179 Contribution to council operating expenses 98,633 Community training 45,000 64 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Recipient Purpose $ Island Coordinating Council Contribution to operating expenses 340,835 Community training (FAIP) 200,000 Television station for 16 communities 206,900 Sewerage connections on Thursday Island 273,716 Major Infrastructure Program 5,050,000 Water upgrades 2,200,000 Island of Origin carnival 27,500 Greater Autonomy Task Force 35,000 Arts development officer/Gospel Eisteddfod 12,286 native title 70,000 Kubin Island Council CDEP wages 496,016 CDEP operational 215,686 Contribution to council operating expenses 38,633 Community training 50,000 BRACS 31,500 4 bedroom guest house 255,000 Upgrade airstrip 300,000 Mabuiag Island Council CDEP wages 404,804 CDEP operational 86,295 Contribution to council operating expenses 31,362 Community training 22,000 BRACS 12,375 Seafood processing plant 5,483 Mer Island Council CDEP wages 875,485 CDEP operational 266,730 Contribution to council operating expenses 124,210 Community training 66,000 BRACS 16,500 Freezer upgrade 203,038 native title expenses 20,000 Mura Kosker Sorority Contribution to operating expenses 132,265 Railway celebrations 10,000 Port Kennedy Association Contribution to operating expenses 141,079 Community training 5,221 TSIRL sports subsidy (Island of Origin) 4,796 Saibai Island Council CDEP wages 833,463 CDEP operational 266,730 Contribution to council operating expenses 46,557 Community training 56,000 BRACS 16,500 Community hall 12,385 Airstrip upgrade 300,000 Seisia Island Council CDEP wages 834,230 CDEP operational 260,801 Contribution to council operating expenses 35,736 Community training 56,000 BRACS 31,500 Annual Report 1999–2000 65

Recipient Purpose $ Stephen Island Council Contribution to council operating expenses 23,565 Basketball court 85,000

St Paul’s Island Council CDEP wages 997,453 CDEP operational 317,231 Contribution to council operating expenses 144,185 Community training 250,000 BRACS 16,500 Community hall 300,000

TI Primary School 1999 Dance team tour 12,000

Torres Shire Council 2000 Torres Strait Cultural Festival 55,000

Torres Strait Islanders Contribution to operating expenses 534,504 Media Assn BRACS digital upgrade 10,000 Mabo Day celebrations 3,000 Qld Broncos visit 2,750

TRAWQ Community CDEP operational 1,071,106 Council Inc CDEP wages 318,738 Contribution to council operating expenses 101,992 Community training 90,000 TSNP Legal Service Operating expenses 336,888 Training 12,000

Torres Strait Youth & Rec. Contribution to operating expenses 253,983 Sporting Assn Inc Community training 16,000

Torres Strait Regional Authority Purchase of land 132,837

Warraber Island Council CDEP wages 734,291 CDEP operational 245,977 Contribution to council operating expenses 67,764 Community training 44,240 BRACS 31,500

Yam Island Council CDEP wages 1,106,145 CDEP operational 294,497 Contribution to council operating expenses 67,062 Community training 40,000 BRACS 16,500

Yorke Island Council CDEP wages 1,105,352 CDEP operational 193,416 Contribution to council operating expenses 56,643 Community training 76,000 BRACS 16,500

Youth Activities Services Operating and employment expenses 39,464 66 Torres Strait Regional Authority

APPENDIX 2: Freedom of (h) take such reasonable action as it considers nec- Information Section 8 Statement essary to protect Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal cultural material and information TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY relating to the Torres Strait area if the material or STRUCTURE UNDER SECTION 8 OF THE information is considered sacred or otherwise significant by Torres Strait Islanders or FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 Aboriginal persons; This statement is correct to 30 June 2000. (i) at the request of, or with the agreement of, the Australian Bureau of Statistics but not otherwise, ESTABLISHMENT to collect and publish statistical information The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) was relating to Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal established under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait persons, living in the Torres Strait area; Islander Commission Act 1989 (ATSIC Act) on 1 July (j) such other functions as are conferred on the 1994. TSRA by this Act or any other Act; (k) such other functions as are expressly conferred FUNCTIONS on the TSRA by a law of a State or of an internal Territory and in respect of which there is in force As stated in Section 142A of the ATSIC Act the func- written approval by the Minister under section tions of the TSRA are to: 142B; (a) recognise and maintain the special and unique (l) undertake such research as is necessary to enable Ailan Kastom of Torres Strait Islanders living in the TSRA to perform any of its other functions; the Torres Strait area; (m) do anything else that is incidental or conducive (b) formulate and implement programs for Torres to the performance of any of the preceding func- Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in tions. the Torres Strait area; (c) monitor the effectiveness of programs for Torres STRUCTURE OF THE TSRA Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in The TSRA is a Commonwealth Statutory Authority the Torres Strait area, including programs con- established under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait ducted by other bodies; Islander Commission Act 1989. It consists of an elect- (d) develop policy proposals to meet national, State ed arm and an administrative arm. Please see section and regional needs and priorities of Torres Strait on TSRA Board for more details. Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area; PROVISION OF FUNDING (e) assist, advise and co-operate with Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal communities, organisa- The TSRA is required to prepare estimates of receipts tions and individuals at national, State, Territory and expenditure for each financial year for submis- and regional levels; sion to the Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait (f) advise the Minister on: Islander Affairs. (i) matters relating to Torres Strait Islander The TSRA operates a number of programs and sub- affairs, and Aboriginal affairs, in the Torres programs for the allocation of funds within the region Strait area, including the administration of including: legislation; (ii) the co-ordination of the activities of other • loans and grants for enterprises; Commonwealth bodies that affect Torres • housing loans; Strait Islanders, or Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area; • economic, social and cultural grants to organisa- (g) when requested by the Minister, to provide infor- tions and individuals; mation or advice to the Minister on any matter • the administrative and elected arm running costs; specified by the Minister; Annual Report 1999–2000 67

• funding for programs to be conducted by the Commissioner; Department of Industrial Relations State; and and Small Business and the Remuneration Tribunal. The Corporate section is also responsible • funding for programs to be conducted by com- for files containing Ministerial briefings; engage- munity councils. ment of consultants; Occupational Health and The actual allocation of money is undertaken by the Safety; Equal Employment Opportunities; TSRA elected arm. The administration is responsible Industrial Democracy; responses to ombudsman’s for implementing the elected arm’s decisions. The activities and responses to Freedom of Information administration also ensures that grants and loans are activities. used in accordance with the purposes for which they • The Secretariat section maintains: copies of the are provided, and that grants and loans are appropri- submissions that have been presented to the ately acquitted and repaid. TSRA meetings; minutes of the TSRA Meetings; TSRA Decision sheets; and financial records relat- CATEGORIES OF DOCUMENTS ing to payment of TSRA Members and meetings. • The Corporate section maintains files on TSRA • Field Operations section maintains files relating expenditure; financial records; client accounts; to grants and community profiles. financial procedures; asset register; property man- • A number of manuals and guidelines are used in agement records; personnel files of TSRA officers; the TSRA’s decision-making policies and guide- files relating to housing and enterprise loans; and lines, including the TSRA Decision Making Grants and Personnel Policy documents including Principles, Finance Procedures manual, and the instructions from the Public Service Program and Administration Delegation manuals.

APPENDIX 3:Advertising and Market Research The TSRA uses ATSIC, under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), for national advertising of job vacancies. In addition, the TSRA uses the local print media for advertising job vacancies, publishing media releases and for the distribution of the TSRA newsletter under Commonwealth Financial Guidelines. No market research or polling and direct mailing of organisations was undertaken by the TSRA. 68 Torres Strait Regional Authority

APPENDIX 4: Staffing Overview; Ministerial Appointments a. Part-time and temporary staff at 30 June 2000 b. Nominal total staff at 30 June 2000 (including part-time and temporary staff) c. Representation of EEO groups within salary levels at 30 June 2000 d. Senior Executive Service gains and losses in 1999-2000 e. Quantum and distribution of performance pay in 1999-2000 f. Organisational chart at 30 June 2000 g. Ministerial Appointments

a. Staff classification breakdown (part-time and temporary staff) Classification Torres Strait Islander Non Torres Strait Islander & Aboriginal & Aboriginal Male Female Total Male Female Total Senior Executive Service Executive Level 2 Executive Level 1 APS Level 6 APS Level 5 APS Level 4 APS Level 3 APS Level 2 1 1 APS Level 1 1 2 3 Sub total Total 1 3 4

b. Nominal total staff at 30 June 2000 (includes part-time and temporary staff) Classification Torres Strait Islander Non Torres Strait Islander & Aboriginal & Aboriginal Male Female Total Male Female Total Senior Executive Service 1 1 Executive Level 2 Executive Level 1 1 1 3 3 APS Level 6 1 1 3 3 APS Level 5 2 2 2 2 APS Level 4 6 6 2 2 APS Level 3 1 1 APS Level 2 1 3 4 APS Level 1 Sub total Total 3 12 15 9 2 11 Annual Report 1999–2000 69

c. Representation of EEO groups within salary level at 30 June 2000 Salary Women TSI&A NESB PWD $92,950 (Senior Executive Services) $64,981 to $76,135 (Executive Level 2) $56,341 to $60,838 1 1 (Executive Level 1) $43,949 to $50,485 1 1 (APS Level 6) $40,691 to $43,148 4 2 2 (APS Level 5) $36,482 to $39,612 6 6 5 (APS Level 4) $32,733 to $35,329 1 1 1 (APS Level 3) $28,739 to $31,869 3 4 4 (APS Level 2) Below $28,065 2 3 3 (APS Level 1) Total 16 18 17

TSI&A Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal NESB Non-English-Speaking Background PWD People with a Disability d. Senior Executive Service gains and losses for 1999-2000 No gains or losses for 1999-2000. e. Quantum and distribution of performance pay for 1999-2000 No specific performance pay was remunerated to the SES officer in the TSRA for 1999–2000. f. Organisational Chart as at 30 June, 2000 (see p.70) g. Ministerial Appointments There were two Ministerial appointments under Section 144L of the ATSIC Act 1989 during the reporting period. Mr Iain Loganathan, Fiscal Management Officer, was appointed to act as General Manager for the period 9 July to 6 August 1999. Mr Brendan O’Connor, Secretariat Manager, was appointed to act as General Manager for the peri- od 9 August to 20 August 1999. TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY ORGANISATIONAL CHART AS AT 30 JUNE 2000

TSRA Chairperson (T00007) TSRA Members

General Manager SES Band 1 (T00001) Executive Assistant APS 4 (T00018) Deputy General Manager Exec. Level 2 (T00002)

Secretariat Manager Manager Corporate/Fiscal Manager Environment Manager Field Operation Executive Officer Exec. Level 1 (T00019) Exec. Level 1 (T00008) Exec. Level 1 (09553) Exec. Level 1 (T00003) Native Title–Exec. Level 1

Secretariat Officer Public Affairs Officer Senior Admin Officer Economic Develop Officer Grant Admin Officer Senior Project Officer Senior Project Officer Principal Legal Officer APS 5 (T00017) PAO 1 (T00022) Executive Assistant Anthropologist (APS 5) APS 6 (01109) APS 6 (00021) APS 6 (01489) APS 6 (00542)–Team 1 APS 6 (00543)–Team 2 Exec. Level 1 APS 4 (T00027) Native Title Office

Assist Secretariat Officer Administration Officer Registry Officer Loan Officer Loan Officer Administration Assistant Project Officer Project Officer Legal Officer Administration Trainee Anthropological Research Assistant APS 2 (T00014) APS 4 (01684) APS 2 (00556) APS 4 (T00011) APS 4 (T00009) APS 2 (01685) APS 5 (01490) APS 5 (00547) APS 4-6 (T00025) (T00030) APS 4 (T00026)

Project Officer Project Officer Project Officer Administration Officer Receptionist Administration Assistant Administration Officer APS 4 (00550) APS 4 (00554) APS 4 (00545) APS 3 (00055) Temporary (T00028) APS 1 (00557) APS 2 (T00029)

Assistant Project Officer Administration Trainee APS 2 (T00014) (T00024) Annual Report 1999–2000 71

APPENDIX 5: Consultancy Summary The TSRA used the services of 15 consultants during 1999-2000, as detailed below: Consultant Details of Consultancy Amount($) Longley & Stapleton Oversee tender process to upgrade and $20,535.00 re-configure TSRA LAN J G Menham Submission to Commonwealth Grants $15,290.00 Commission Felan Consulting Badu Island Gabuth Tours $1,902.00 Feasibility – Coconut tourism $1,682.00 BFS monitoring $1,080.00 Coconut and Yorke Islands tourism $1,643.00 Coconut, Yorke and Seisia tourism $1,320.00 ASEA Regional CEIS Seisia Abattoir Feasbility Study $2,747.00 Planning Development & Business Services Spencer & Morgan BFS monitoring $4,043.00 Associates CEIS Seisa Village Campground $2,625.00 Hall Chadwick BFS monitoring $980.00 Feasibility study Dauan & Kubin Guesthouses $240.00 Feasibility study Torres News $150.00 Feasibility study Badu Island Motel $1,700.00 Linda Meus BFS monitoring Yorke Island $1,041.00 CEIS monitoring Hammond Mini Mart $1,998.00 BFS & CEIS monitoring $3,039.00 JPS Consultancy BFS monitoring $1,965.00 Peter Devietti BFS monitoring $12,443.00 Chung Lin Stock Provision of financial and budgetary advice $60,697.00 Ray Wood Anthropological inquiry to native title in seas $5,525.00 Report on Kaurareg sea claim $1,925.00 native title meeting $2,200.00 Nicolas Peterson Preparation of Naghir connection report $11,550.00 Dr Jeremy Beckett Preparation of Dauar & Waier land claim $10,796.00 Julie Lahn Preparation of Aureed, Yarpar, Uttu and $14,000.00 Zuizin Islands connection report Netbridge Systems Upgrade and re-configure TSRA LAN $34,441.00 Integration Total $215,577.00 72 Torres Strait Regional Authority

GLOSSARY ICC Island Coordinating Council AAT Administrative Appeals Tribunal JAC Joint Advisory Council (in relation AFMA Australian Fisheries Management to the Torres Strait Treaty) Authority MaSTERS Marine Strategy for Torres Strait Ailan Kastom Island Custom MIP Major Infrastructure Program AM Order of Australia MoU Memorandum of Understanding ANAO Australian National Audit Office Mura Kosker Mura Kosker Sorority Incorporated ATSIC Act Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander NESB Non-English-Speaking Background Commission Act 1989 NTO Native Title Office BFS Business Funding Scheme OH&S Occupational Health and Safety BRACS Broadcasting for Remote Aboriginal Communities Scheme PKA Port Kennedy Association CDC Commercial Development PNG Papua New Guinea Corporation PSMPC Public Service and Merit Protection CDEP Community Development Commission Employment Projects PWD People with a Disability CEIS Community Economic Initiatives SES Senior Executive Service Scheme TDA Tamwoy Development Association CTP Community Training Program TRAWQ Tamwoy, Rosehill, Aplin, Waiben DATSIPID Department of Aboriginal and and Quarantine Torres Strait Islander Policy and TSI&A Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Development TSIAB Torres Strait Islander Advisory DETYA Department of Education, Training Board and Youth Affairs TSIMA Torres Strait Islander Media EAP ATSIC Employee Assistance Association Program TSNP Torres Strait and Northern EEO Equal Employment Opportunity Peninsula EMC Environmental management TSRA Torres Strait Regional Authority Committee TSYRSA Torres Strait Youth and Recreation FAIP Financial Administrative Sporting Association Improvement Program YAS Youth Activities Services FOI Freedom of Information Hon. honourable IBIS Islanders Board of Industry and Service Annual Report 1999–2000 73

INDEXES bronchitis, 14 Abednego, John (former Chairperson), 1, 7, 11, 12 budget, 20 accrual accounting, 27 Business and Economic Development, 6 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Minister see also economic development (Cwlth), 36 Business Funding Scheme (BFS), 6, 23-4 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission industry sector, 24 (ATSIC) business loans, 3, 8 relationship, 19 Services Agreement, 6, 7, 18, 19 Cairns, 29 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act cancer, 14 1989, iv, 8, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 40 CDEP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy, Minister see Community Development Employment (Qld), 36 Project Aboriginal people census, population, 13 see Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people Chairperson, 8 accommodation, office, 17 report, 2-4 achievements, planned, 21-3 Chevron Gas Pipeline Proposal, 7, 30 additional information, contact for, 1 child care, 32-3 Administration, 5-6, 36 Coconut Island, 2, 5, 11, 13, 27, 28, 31, 32, 35, 37 Administrative Appeals Tribunal, 18 Tourism Venture, 24, 25 advertising, 41 Commercial Development Corporation (CDC), 10 advisory committees, 12, 31 Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997, iv advocacy services, 29 Community Development Employment Project Ahmat, Jack, 9 (CDEP), 14, 20, 21, 25-6, 37, 38, 39 Ailan Kastom, v, 3 Community Economic Initiatives Scheme (CEIS), 24-5 airstrips, 36, 38 community halls, 28, 37-9 appropriations, 20 community housing, 36 arts and culture, 27, 29-30, 38 Community Training Program (CTP), 26-7, 37, 38, 39 asthma, 14 consultants, 45 audits, 17 Corporate Development Plans, 6 Australian Fisheries Management Authority, 30, 31 corporate documents, 18 Australian Institute of Marine Science, 30 Corporate Services, 17-18 Australian Institute of Torres Strait Islander Studies, 17 courts, 29 Australian National Audit Office, 6, 17 criminal activities, 7 autonomy, 4, 38 Croker Island, 3 culture, 27, 30 Badu Island, 9, 28, 29, 32, 34, 35, 37 earthworks, 24 dance, 30, 39 Bamaga Community, 28, 34, 37 Darnley Island, 9, 28, 35, 37 Bamago Motel, 24 Dau, Edward, 9 Bilateral Commonwealth/State Housing Agreement, 36 Dauan Island, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 35, 37 Billy, Ted, 9 Guest House, 24, 25, 37 Board, TSRA, 4, 8-12 Day, Ron, 10 Boigu Island, 3, 9, 28, 30, 33, 34, 37 deaths, 14 Bowie, Phillip, 12 Deliverance Island Broadcasting for Remote Aboriginal Communities see Boigu Scheme (BRACS), 29 Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander broadcasting, 28-9 Policy and Development (DATSIPID), 33 74 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Department of Education, Training and Youth Affairs General Manager, 43 (DETYA), 25, 26 report, 5-7 Department of Finance and Administration (Cwlth), 36 goals, vi Department of Primary Industries (Qld), 32 grants, 28, 30, 31, 37 Department of Transport (Qld), 33 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, 30 Deputy Chairperson, 8 Greater Autonomy Taskforce, 4 desalination systems, 33, 35 Devereux, Max, 6 halls, community, 28, 37 diabetes, 14 Hammond Island, 3, 9, 28, 33, 34, 37 disability, staff with, 43 harassment officers, 18 documents, 18, 41 health, 14 domestic violence, 32 heart disease, 14 Doolah, Elia, 9 Heritage, Culture and Environment, 29-31 drainage, 22, 34, 35 High Court, 13 home ownership, 14, 24 economic development, 3, 21, 23-5 Horn Island, 12 education and training, 14, 26 hospital admissions, 14 elections, TSRA, 18 Housing and Environment, Health and Infrastructure Elu, Joseph, 10 Program, 20, 22, 33-6 emphysema, 14 housing, 14, 33, 36 Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 18 Housing, Minister (Qld), 36 employment, 14, 28 human resources, 17, 19 Environment Australia, 30, 31 see also staff environment, 17, 30, 33 human rights, 29 Environmental Management Committee (EMC), 7 Equal Employment Opportunity, 18, 42 income, 14 equipment and machinery, 28 Indigenous Advisory Committee, 31 Erub Island industrial democracy, 18 see Darnley Island information technology, 6, 7, 19 establishment, TSRA, 14-15, 40 infrastructure, 2, 3, 4 external audit, 17 insurance, home ownership, 23, 24 internal audit, 17 Family and Community Services, Minister (Cwlth), 36 Island Co-ordinating Council (ICC), 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Financial Administration Improvement Program 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 36, 37 (FAIP), 26 Island of Origin, 37 financial information system, 6, 19 Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS), 9, 26 financial statements, ?? fisheries management, 7, 9, 31 James Cook University, 30 fishing industry, 24 Joint Advisory Council (JAC), 7 seafood processing, 38 Joint Torres Strait Housing and Infrastructure Freedom of Information Act 1982, 1, 18, 19, 40-1 Agreement, 3 freedom of information, 18, 19 functions, TSRA, 15-16, 40 Kris, John, 11 funding, TSRA, 40-1 Kubin Community, 3, 5, 10, 29, 33, 35, 36, 37

Garnier, Henry, 9 land claims gas pipeline, 7, 30 see native title Annual Report 1999–2000 75

land, purchase of, 36, 39 occupational health and safety, 18 Legal Aid, 29 ocean resources, 30 legal services, 23, 29 Office of Evaluation and Audit, 6, 17 legislation, 15 oil spills, 31 separate Act, 2, 5 organisation and structure, 40, 44 Lena Passi Domestic Violence Workshop, 32 outcome and outputs, 20-36 Levi, Miseron, 6, 7 outsourcing, 17 loans, 3, 6, 23-4 Ove Arup & Partners, 34 Lui, Getano, 11 Papua New Guinea, 7, 13, 30 Mabo day, 39 passports, 7 Mabuiag Island, 2, 5, 8, 13, 27, 35, 37, 38 Pearson, Francis, 11 Magistrates Courts, 29 Pearson, Gibson, 7 Major Infrastructure Program (MIP), 4, 7, 30, 33, 34-6, performance pay, 43 38 perinatal conditions, 14 marine environment, 31 pneumonia, 14 Marine Strategy for Torres Strait (MaSTERS), 31 Policy and Information program, 20, 23, 36 market research, 41 population, 13 Masig Island Port Kennedy Association, 31, 32, 37 see Yorke Island Port Kennedy, Member for, 10 Mau, Margaret, 8, 12 Portfolio members meat processing facilities, 34 Arts, Language, Culture and Sport, 8 meetings, 12 Education, Training and Employment, 10 Memorandum of Understanding, 19, 41 Health and Environment, 12 Mer Island Housing and Infrastructure, 11 see Murray Island Marine and Fisheries, 9 ministerial appointments, 43 Small Business and Economic Development, 6 Moa Island, 2, 10, 13 Women’s Issues, 8 mortality rates, 14 Portfolio positions, 12 Mosby, Donald, 11 Poruma Island Mosby, Joey, 7 see Coconut Island, Municipal Support program, 27-8 powers of direction by Minister, 16 Mura Kosker Sorority, 32, 37, 38 powers of TSRA, 16 Muralug (Prince of Wales) Island, 12 Prince of Wales Island, 12 Murray Island, 3, 10, 13, 28, 33, 35, 37 Privacy Act 1988, 18 privacy, 18 Native Title Act 1993, 2 Program Performance Native Title Office, 2, 7, 20, 27, 31 property, 17 native title, 2-3, 7, 13, 18, 20, 21-2, 27 protected areas, 17 newsletters, 18, 36 public relations, 36 Ngurupai (Horn) Island, 12 publications, 18, 32 non-English speaking backgrounds, staff from, 43 Pulu Island non-Indigenous population, 13, 14 see Mabuiag objectives, 17 Queensland Auditor General, 27 Queensland Broncos visit, 39 Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Queensland Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984, Employment) Act 1990, 18 8, 15 76 Torres Strait Regional Authority

Queensland Department of Transport, 36 Torres Shire Council, 10, 39 Queensland Government, 3, 26, 28, 32, 34 Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Legal Service (TSNP), 39 radio broadcasting, 28-9 Torres Strait Cultural Festival, 30 recruitment Torres Strait Development Plan, 18, 19 see staffing Torres Strait Framework Agreement, 3 railway celebrations, 38 Torres Strait Health Strategy, 14 recreation, 31-2, 37, 39 Torres Strait Heavy Metals Research Project, 30 Reef Advisory Committee, 31 Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people, 6 research projects, 31 Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989, 14 research protocols, 18, 31 Torres Strait Islander Media Association (TSIMA), 11, respiratory diseases, 14 28, 29 reviews, 16 Torres Strait Region, description, 13 rugby league, 32 Torres Strait Treaty, 7 Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Saibai Island, 2, 5, 8, 13, 34, 36, 37 Association (TSYRSA), 31, 32 Savage, Saila, 10 training, 6, 17, 26 seafood processing, 28, 38 TRAWQ communities, 11, 39 Seisia Community, 10, 34, 37 meat processing facilities, 24 Ugar Island Senior Executive Staff, 42, 43 see Stephen Island Service Agreement, 7, 18, 19 unemployment, 14, 32 Service Charter, 18 sewerage, 34-5, 36, 38 vision statement, v social justice, 29 social programs, 31-3 Waia, Terry, 7, 8, 12 Social, Cultural and Development program, 20, 22, Warner, the Hon. Nick, 7 27-31 Warraber Island, 2, 5, 9, 13, 27, 28, 29, 35, 39 Somerset Island, 13 water reservoirs, 5 sport, 31-2, 37, 39 Water Upgrade, Stage 2, 3-4, 5, 33, 38 St Pauls Community, 3, 5, 11, 28 water, quality, 14, 34-5 staff, 6, 7, 21 website, 36 numbers, 42 Whap, Terrence (Alternate Deputy Chairperson), 8, 12 training and development, 6, 17, 26 Williams, Reg, 12 Stephen Island, 3, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37 Women’s Council for Rural and Regional Stephen, Pastor Pedro, 10, 12 Communities, 8 Straitcare, 30 women’s issues, 8, 32-3 structure, TSRA, 40 Workplace Agreement, 5 organisation chart, 44 works, summary of, 34-5 World Health Organization, 22, 33 Tamwoy Development Association (TDA), 11 television and radio services, 28-9 Yam Island, 11, 28, 31, 34, 35, 39 Thursday Island, 5, 13, 29, 36 Yorke Island, 2, 5, 11, 13, 27, 33, 35, 39 TI primary school, 39 Youth Activities Services (YAS), 31, 32, 39 Torres News, 18 youth, 31-2 Annual Report 1999–2000 77

COMPLIANCE INDEX advertising, 41 aids to access contents, iii glossary, ?? index, ?? preface, 1 annual report contact officer, 1 consultancies, 45 corporate overview, 17 documents available, 18, 41 enabling legislation, 15 equal employment opportunity, 43 financial statements, 46-?? freedom of information, 18, 19 functions of the TSRA, 15-16 grants by the TSRA, 28, 30, 31, 37 independent audit report, ?? industrial democracy, 18 information available on request, 1 internal and external scrutiny, 17 letter of transmittal, iv market research, 41 members of the TSRA, 8 occupational health and safety, 18 outcome and outputs, 20-36 privacy, 18 program structure, 44 social justice, 29 staff of the TSRA, 6, 7, 42 Torres Strait Regional Authority TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY ANNUAL REPORT 1999–2000 REPORT ANNUAL TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY

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Y E T G I I R O O N H Annual Report 1999–2000 AL AUT